About the "...With Orchestra" Concert

Pam Hahn/Vanja Gjumar Nikolovski

The upcoming concert on October 8, 2023 features not just one, but two soloists. I asked Maestro Nikolovski some questions about this unusual concert.

Q:  It's exciting that the October 8 concert program will feature two talented local guest soloists. The two concertos they're performing are quite different in style. Which concerto is more challenging for the orchestra - the Hummel trumpet concerto or the Lennon Saxophone concerto? Why?

A:  Both concertos have their own specifics about the difficulties. Hummel has to be played very clear, so the audience can really enjoy the transition between classical and romantic era. Probably more challenging is Lennon concerto, because of the contemporary style and frequent tempo and time signature changes. Both are very fun on their own way.

Q:  This concert begins with the Haydn "Oxford" Symphony and ends with an overture, which is unusual programing. Do you usually consider yourself as a traditionalist when deciding on programming? What made you design this concert this way?

A:  I learned that every once a while change is needed. I used to be a traditionalist about the programing, but today I am very open minded about it. Simply, the first half is very classical and the freshness of the “Oxford” Symphony should bring the atmosphere for the rest of the concert. Tchaikovsky is a true pearl in music so I believe ending with this piece will bring lots of joy among the listeners.

Q:  Speaking of traditions, I know you prefer that our audiences hold their applause until the end of a multiple-movement piece. What is your reason for this preference?

A:  The main reason is to preserve concentration to the orchestra and conductor. Many times breaks between movements are short and applause can cause distraction. They can applause on the end of the piece as long as they wish.