Under the direction of Dr. Colin Holman, the Fox Valley
Orchestra performs this haunting work with western instruments. From China the orchestra journeys to Spain with Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio
Espagnol. Composed in 1887, this masterpiece was hailed by
critics as “a brilliant composition for orchestra.” The change of timber
and melodic design, interspersed with virtuoso cadenzas for solo instruments,
thrills audiences every time it is played. The Spanish themes and dance
character help to make it a favorite with audiences everywhere. On to Italy
with Tchaikovsky’s Capriccio Italien, Op. 45, which was inspired by a
trip Tchaikovsky took to Rome. There he experienced an Italian Carnival
and used the folk music freely in this fantasy for orchestra. The
introductory bugle call comes directly from an Italian cavalry, which was
stationed outside Tchaikovsky’s hotel window. Another audience favorite,
this one is sure to please.
Also featured on the program is principal percussionist
Dan Heffner performing Mayuzumi’s contemporary work, Concertino for
Xylophone and Orchestra. Mayuzumi, a prolific Japanese composer, is
also known for his hundreds of works for movies. Heffner is a graduate of
Northwestern University. He has performed in numerous groups in the area
including the Wheaton Band, Chicago Brass Band, and the Fox Valley Concert
Band, Lake Shore Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra,
Symphony of Oak Park and River Forest. He was an inaugural member
of the rhythmic performance ensemble Be The Groove.
Don’t miss the “Exotic!” concert on Saturday, October 26,
7:30 p.m. at Batavia Fine Arts Center, Batavia, and Sunday, October 27, 3:00
p.m. at Crimi Auditorium at Aurora University in Aurora. Tickets are $13
adults, $11 for students and seniors. Advanced tickets are $12 or $10 for
students and seniors. Call or email to inquire about group
discounts. 630-891-2526 or tickets@foxvalleyorchestra.org
