Vista Philharmonic Orchestra featuring Borromeo String Quartet

COLERIDGE-TAYLOR – Dance Négre
SCHOENBERG – Concerto for String Quartet and Orchestra
TCHAIKOVSKY – Symphony No. 4

The Borromeo String Quartet were very popular at the chamber music series we presented for many years at The Kalliroscope Gallery here in Groton. Tonight they will join us for this concert’s centerpiece: Arnold Schoenberg’s Concerto in B-flat Major for String Quartet and Orchestra. Written in 1933, this delightfully inventive work is described as a ‘free transcription’ of G.F. Händel’s Concerto Grosso, Op. 6, No. 7. Late 19th Century composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor especially enjoyed taking themes from African American folk music and integrating them into the classical tradition. The Danse nègre from his African Suite, Op. 35 (1898) is a festive cultural tribute and charming concert opener. “Everybody loves Tchaikovsky,” says Bruce, “and playing one of his great symphonies – the Fourth – is a perfect way to end this concert.” Listeners will recognize his ability to combine epic symphonic writing with colorful instrumentation as well as deep emotion.