Carlos Kalmar, conductor
Michael Thornton, horn
GOULD Spirituals for Orchestra
GLIÈRE Concerto for Horn in B-flat major, Op. 91
SCHUBERT Symphony in B minor, D. 759, "Unfinished"
WAGNER Prelude to Die Meistersinger
In his first Colorado Symphony appearance since 2004, guest conductor Carlos Kalmar leads the orchestra in a performance of varied works. Glière’s sweeping and unprecedentedly demanding Concerto for Horn is performed by Principal Horn Michael Thornton. Contrary to its name, Schubert’s “Unfinished” Symphony provides a complete, essential symphonic experience despite the mystery surrounding its incomplete status. In a stirring conclusion to the program, Wagner’s bright and virtuosic Prelude to Die Meistersinger introduces the opera’s most important themes in a beautifully self-contained fashion, making it a magnificent concert piece.