ESO closes season with 'Concerts for the Common Man' May 4-5

Posted April 29, 2019 11:00 pm

Submitted by Elgin Symphony Orchestra

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director Andrew Grams, presents its 2018-19 season finale, concerts for the "Common Man," at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 4, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin.

Two composers are featured - Gustav Mahler and Aaron Copland, and two final symphonies, one heartbreaking, one hopeful.

Mahler wrote his Adagio from Symphony No. 10 when he was terminally ill and dealing with his wife's infidelity. Copland's last symphony, No. 3, has been called by critics "an American monument" and "the greatest American symphony ever written." Symphony No. 3 embodies Copland's quintessential American sound, expressing the spirit of hope and promise for the future. The fourth movement includes the theme from a prior work, "Fanfare for the Common Man," which has become a patriotic standard.

Preconcert chats will be presented by Andrew Grams one hour before the performances. After the Saturday performance, concertgoers are invited to Mingle with the Musicians at Bennigan's Elgin, with free snacks and cash bar.

Tickets start at $30. Youth/student tickets are $11. Valet and free parking are available. Visit ElginSymphony.Org or call (847) 888-4000.

Elgin Symphony Orchestra presents its season finale, concerts for the "Common Man," on May 4 and 5 at Hemmens Cultural Center, Elgin. Courtesy of Elgin Symphony Orchestra

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