Peninsula Symphony Presents Beethoven's 'Emperor' Concerto March 10, 2012

March 9 in Redwood City and March 10 in Cupertino, 8pm both nights

Peninsula Symphony and Music Director Mitchell Sardou Klein continue their 2011-2012 season with two evenings of lively and intelligent performances on March 9 and 10. Welcoming dynamic Irish pianist John O'Conor, known for his command of Beethoven's keyboard repertoire, the Symphony will perform Beethoven's "Emperor" Concerto. In a nod to their soloist's roots, the Symphony will also perform Charles Stanford's Irish Rhapsody, No. 1. Aaron Copland's Suite from Billy the Kid will round out the evening. The concerts take place Friday, March 9, at 8 p.m. at the Fox Theatre in Redwood City and at Saturday, March 10, at 8 p.m. at the Flint Center/De Anza College in Cupertino.

Beethoven's "Emperor" Concerto was written around 1809 and was Beethoven's last piano concerto. Dedicated to Archduke Rudolf, Beethoven's patron and pupil, the three movements are said to depict Beethoven's sorrowful farewell to the Archduke, his sadness at his absence and his joy upon the Archduke's return a year later. The concerto is known for its remarkable coherence between movements and its expansive range, which pushed the boundaries of expectations. The March performances, played by a leading authority on Beethoven's works, promise to expand the expectations of even the most seasoned listeners.

Official Website: http://www.peninsulasymphony.org/