Michael Tilson Thomas and the San Francisco Symphony at Hill Auditorium

The San Francisco Symphony’s performance last week was really a show for everyone. The SFO opened the evening with Sibelius’ final symphony, and concluded with Beethoven’s 3^rd Symphony, otherwise titled “Eroica”. The performance was simply magnificent, as expected from one of the world’s most highly acclaimed orchestras. The contrasting nature of these two pieces was underlined by Associate Conductor James Gaffigan, at his appearance during Arts & Eats. In response to an insightful question, Mr. Gaffigan decided that an apt title for the evening performance be “revolutionary symphonies”. Mr Gaffigan explained how both Sibelius and Beethoven forward thinking composers during their respective times; both individuals were pioneering the traditional style and form of the traditional classical symphony. Although each composer lived during a different age in time, both explore contrasting themes of heroism and despair, and take the listener on a dramatic musical and emotional journey. Under conductor Michael Tilson Thomas’ baton, the symphony made for certain that no audience member was excluded from the musical experience. Tilson made a special effort to break the ice at the concert’s beginning. Unlike the traditional classical concert, Tilson was very candid with the audience, and introduced the orchestra with a brief discourse on the evening repertoire, making sure that no audience member felt out of place. Even associate conductor James Gaffigan emphasized at his Arts & Eats discussion that classical music is for everyone to enjoy, regardless of one’s musical background.

The concert’s audience included people of all types, from seasoned classical enthusiasts to individuals I met who had never before attended a classical concert. I was surprised to see just as many non-students as students at the Arts & Eats event before the concert, although it was wonderful to see so many individuals excited about classical music. The Arts & Eats event was packed with people, anticipating the performance; thanks to good planning, there was plenty of pizza and drinks for everyone. The SFO was showered with applause and needless to say, received a standing ovation. As an encore piece, the SFO performed the Third Entr’acte from Schubert's Rosamunde, and to everyone’s delight, the “Victors” with members of the university’s own marching band.

Yours truly,

Yash
UMS Student Committee member