Masterworks

March 17, 8:00 pm

Michigan Theater

Daugherty: “Oh, Lois” from the Metropolis Symphony
Saint-Saëns: Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor, Op. 61
Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64

Opening this special concert is “Oh, Lois!” from the comic book-inspired Metropolis Symphony by Ann Arbor Grammy Award winner Michael Daugherty. Daugherty, a member of the composition faculty at the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance, is a musical superhero himself, as one of the most frequently commissioned, programmed, and recorded current American composers. The award-winning Metropolis Symphony (composed between 1988 and 1993) was one of his ground-breaking successes, and the first in a series of works inspired by iconic American figures.

Concertmaster Berofsky will perform Saint-Saëns’ Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor. It is considered one of the most romantic and monumental of all 19th-century violin concertos. “What we adore about Aaron’s playing is his gorgeous sound, elegant approach, and seemingly effortless virtuosity,” says Maestro Lipsky.

Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 in E minor depicts the ultimate triumph of perseverance through adversity. The undeniable power of this dramatic work will leave you breathless. Tchaikovsky’s genius is reflected in his transforming a somber minor theme in the first movement into one of the greatest moments for concert goers with the full orchestra finale.

Aaron Berofsky, A²SO’s Concertmaster, was the soloist in the A²SO Naxos recording Fetler Violin Concerto recorded live at the Michigan Theater. An internationally renowned chamber musician and soloist, Berofsky is a Professor at the U-M School of Music, Theatre & Dance.