Beethoven, Britten & Respighi

Beethoven Grosse Fugue, Op. 133
Respighi Ancient Airs & Dances
Britten Simple Symphony

This concert is a love letter to the string family—its richness, versatility, and expressive depth. Beethoven’s monumental Grosse Fugue, originally written for string quartet and later arranged for string orchestra, is a master class in complexity, daring harmony, and structural brilliance. Respighi’s Ancient Airs & Dances brings a sense of wistful elegance, as the composer reimagines Renaissance and Baroque melodies with lush orchestration. Britten’s playful Simple Symphony, based on themes he wrote as a child, offers a delightful finale full of wit, charm, and youthful exuberance.