The festival concludes its kaleidoscopic journey with a program of dazzling musical fireworks. Beginning with Gershwin's irresistible Cuban Overture for two pianos, the program includes performances from Liam Teague and Jaden Teague-Núnez that showcase the versatility and virtuosity of the steelpan. The festival will close with Rachmaninoff's final masterpiece, the Symphonic Dances (1940). Written while Rachmaninoff was living in the United States, it would prove to be his last major composition. This two piano score was given its private premiere with the composer and Vladimir Horowitz in Beverly Hills in August of 1942. Originally subtitled "Noon", "Twilight", and "Midnight", the three movements of this expansive work weave together driving rhythms of city life, endlessly beautiful melodies, shadowy chromaticism, and allusions to Rachmaninoff's own first symphony with the Dies Irae chant that haunted his music throughout his life.
The festival is proud to welcome Elizabeth Dorman to the stage in her festival debut. A San Francisco native, Ms. Dorman has performed nationally and abroad to great acclaim, including appearances with the Leipzig Mendelssohn Chamber Orchestra, the Louisville Orchestra, as keyboardist with the San Francisco Symphony, and as recitalist and chamber musician at prominent venues including Carnegie Hall, Tanglewood, and the Banff Centre. Dorman is joined by founder and artistic director Jeffrey LaDeur, pianist and educator known for his musical leadership and compelling performance style. Don't miss this thrilling conclusion to the season!
George Gershwin
Cuban Overture for 2 pianos
Kevin Bobo
Rhapsody in Steel
Liam Teague
A Visit to Hell
Sergei Rachmaninoff
Symphonic Dances for 2 Pianos
Elizabeth Dorman, piano*
Jeffrey LaDeur, piano
Liam Teague, steelpan
Jaden Teague-Núñez, steelpan
*Festival debut