Coastal Symphony of Georgia Opening Concert - EXPRESSIONS

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The Coastal Symphony of Georgia, conducted by Michelle Merrill, presents EXPRESSIONS. 

Opening Night brings us lyrical music expressing emotion in imaginative and descriptive ways. The program features: Samuel Coleridge-Taylor's Ballade; Edvard Grieg's Lyric Suite; and Sir Edward William Elgar's Enigma Variations.

Ballade has been called a clever young man’s piece, a wild orchestra ride brimming with invention and energy. 19th Century English composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, known in his time as “The Black Mahler,” offers soulful melodies, dramatic story telling, and lots of energy.

Edvard Grieg’s Lyric Suite is rooted in the national folk tradition of Norway and is noted for a refined lyrical sense, music that catches your ear in a unique way that might be called singable. The 19th Century Norwegian composer identifies himself with the poet’s imagery, expressing its musical equivalent in his songs. In the Suite, Grieg’s spirited rhythms offer musical poems of a Shepherd Boy, a Norwegian march, a Notturno (dreamy nighttime reflection) and a March of the Trolls.

Enigma Variations from 19th Century English composer Sir Edward William Elgar closes the performance. It is a musical sketch of individuals which he said expresses his friends pictured within, “commenced in a spirit of humor continued in deep seriousness.” Each variation of the main theme represents a friend or family member from his life. It is like trying to solve a puzzle – what is the enigma?

For more details, to purchase season or individual concert tickets, or for sponsorship opportunities, visit coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org.