San Francisco Symphony - Music of Schumann

Lars Vogt Performs Schumann's Piano Concerto

A rousing program celebrating the genius of Schumann awaits listeners in early 2019, shining in the able hands of acclaimed guest conductor Daniel Harding and the San Francisco Symphony. The ensemble welcomes Grammy Award nominated German classical pianist Lars Vogt for the three-night series, his lyrical performance style and dynamic key touch making the perfect companions to the sweeping, rich orchestrations and mellifluous melodic passages of the Romantic era giant.

The evening begins with Schumann's Overture to Genoveva, the only operatic work the composer ever wrote. Based on the 8th century medieval legend of Genevieve of Brabant it is subject to regular revival thanks to its passionate opening theme for violins. This is followed by his Symphony No. 2, a deeply expressive work written at a time of great struggle for Schumann, whose health was deteriorating and tinnitus worsening. The symphony's triumphant jubilance leads on to Schumann's fantasia-esque Piano Concerto, during which Vogt will take to the stage for a powerhouse finish.