Overview
Elgar "Enigma Variations"
Courtney Lewis, conductor
Courtney Hershey Bress, harp
HAYDN Symphony No. 60 in C major, “Il distratto”
DEBUSSY Dances Sacred and Profane
RAVEL Introduction and Allegro
ELGAR Variations on an Original Theme, Op.36, “Enigma Variations”
This dazzling program showcases Colorado Symphony Principal Harp Courtney Hershey Bress performing virtuosic masterpieces from Debussy and Ravel. New York Philharmonic staff conductor Courtney Lewis leads this program culminating in Sir Edward Elgar’s Variations on an Original Theme. Popularly known as “Enigma Variations” the piece consists of 14 variations that each depict one of Elgar’s family members or friends in a musical cryptogram that draws inspiration from lost loves, barking bulldogs, and his toughest critics.