The California Theatre courtyard transforms into a Beer Garden as Symphony San Jose celebrates not Oktoberfest…but BACHTOBERFEST. Enjoy a stein and the orchestral music of J.S. Bach, and two other composers greatly inspired by the Baroque giant.
THE PROGRAM:
J.S. Bach: Orchestral Suite No. 3
J.S. Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 5
Michael-Thomas Foumai: Music from the Castle of Heaven
Felix Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 5 (Reformation)
ARTISTS
Nathan Aspinall, conductor
Australian conductor Nathan Aspinall has led orchestras across the globe including in the USA, Europe and Australasia. His work is characterized by insightful musicianship, innovative programming and meaningful community engagement.
Soloists: Jonathan Salzedo, harpsichord; MyungJu Yeo, flute; & Robin Mayforth, violin.
Fun Facts:
- Next time you think your trip to the California Theatre is long, remember that Bach once walked 280 miles to hear a concert.
- When Bach told his employer, the Duke of Weimar, that he had a better job offer, the insulted Duke threw him in jail for 30 days.
- Bach composed more than 1,000 works, but after his death in 1750, few were performed. It wasn’t until Mendelssohn conducted the St. Matthew Passion in 1829 that the world saw a renewed interest in this musical giant.
Where Have I Heard It Before:
- The most famous movement from Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 3 is “Air on the G String,” which was used in the movies The English Patient and Se7en.
- The fourth movement of Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 5 is based on Martin Luther’s chorale, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God”
Concert Length: Approximately 1 hour 55 minutes, with intermission.