“Sir Andrew Davis comes to the North Shore”, the newspaper ad announces. It refers to Sir Andrew’s appearance with the Chicago Philharmonic on Oct. 28th. I admit I have to blink to make sure my eyes are reading it properly. It’s true that Larry Rachleff, our Chicago Philharmonic Music Director, has often suggested that we ask Sir Andrew to guest-conduct our orchestra, and I have had a similar discussion with many of my colleagues in the orchestra. It’s also true that we have talked with Maestro Davis about the idea for many years, but scheduling difficulties (he is a very busy man) would not permit -- not until now, that is.
So I pinch myself and allow myself to fully believe that the Lyric Opera’s Music Director, Sir Andrew Davis, is actually going to conduct our orchestra in its opening subscription concert on Sunday evening, October 28 (7:00 pm), at Pick Staiger Hall on Northwestern University’s Evanston campus.
If you think the members of the Chicago Philharmonic (with a substantial number of key Lyric players involved) aren’t excited…well, in short, we are! Our Maestro at Lyric, who has led us through Wagner’s Ring and a wide-ranging repertoire from Mozart to Janacek, Verdi, Puccini, and Strauss, is going to conduct us in a dream symphonic program: Schumann’s glorious Rhenish Symphony and the Shostakovich 1st Cello Concerto, preceded by Glinka’s stirring Overture to Ruslan and Ludmilla.
What makes this event all the more special is the fact that Sir Andrew and the Chicago Philharmonic will be joined by the European cello sensation, Daniel Mueller-Schott. He is fast becoming known in this country, as a recent glowing New York Times review attests. Check out Mueller-Schott’s recording of the Elgar and Walton concertos to revel in his glorious sound and commanding technique.
You won’t want to miss what’s sure to be one of the most exciting musical events of this or any concert season. I strongly advise you call 847-866-6888 for tickets while they’re still available. Prices range from $35 to $70. Free parking is part of the bargain.
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