(PLAINFIELD, NJ) -- On Saturday, March 19, the Plainfield Symphony Orchestra will present their next in-person as well as live-stream concert entitled “Fond Farewells” led by Maestro Charles Prince. The program begins at at 3:00pm and will feature symphonies by two musical giants, Haydn and Schubert as well as a long-awaited tribute to three musical colleagues they lost over the past two years. The concert takes place at the Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church (716 Watchung Avenue) in Plainfield, New Jersey.
The Plainfield Symphony Orchestra stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and will be performing the Ukrainian Anthem at this concert. Donations to support the Ukrainians are suggested and a list of organizations will be provided.
Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 45 in F# minor, known as his “Farewell Symphony,” was composed in 1772. Employed as royal conductor to Prince Nikolaus Esterházy, Haydn had taken temporary residence at the Prince's castle in Hungary. After an extremely long season, Haydn and his musicians were long overdue to return home to their families but the Prince requested they stay longer to perform a new symphony. Haydn gently hinted that his overworked musicians might like to return home with an ingenious musical ending to this work.
The Symphony No. 9 in C major, D 944, known as “The Great,” is the final symphony completed by Franz Schubert (1797-1828). He was in his twenties when he composed the 9th and already an accomplished and prolific songwriter. In this symphony, Schubert calls upon his skill for creating a melody and through its breadth and expansive form, provides us with a work of optimism, joy, and grandeur. The symphony was not performed until a decade after Schubert’s death, championed by composer Robert Schumann.
Come reunite with the Plainfield Symphony family as they gather again to experience inspiring music. They will also remember and honor three cherished PSO musicians whom they have lost: Ed Paul (former Principal String Bass), Bliss Michelson (Classical Radio Station Host and String Bass Player) and his wife, Peggy Wiltrout (Oboe, English Horn and Oboe d’Amore).
Musicians and all attendees must show proof of COVID vaccination to attend. Please visit the website for current COVID Protocols put in place for the health and safety of all. The Plainfield Symphony is New Jersey's oldest community symphony and the third oldest in the country.
