Cast and Creative Team

• Conductor • RICCARDO CHAILLY
• Viola • SIMONIDE BRACONI

Program

• Paul Hindemith: “Rag Time (wohltemperiert) for orchestra”
• Paul Hindemith: “Der Schwanendreher,” Concerto for viola and small orchestra
• George Gershwin: “Cuban Overture”
• George Gershwin: “An American in Paris”

This concert by the Filarmonica della Scala, led by its Music Director Riccardo Chailly, offers an exciting juxtaposition of European modernism and American jazz influence.

Paul Hindemith (1895-1963) is one of the most significant German composers of the 20th century.

• “Rag Time (wohltemperiert) for orchestra” (1921): This early work by Hindemith is an homage to American ragtime, which he translates into a classical orchestral language with humor and wit. The title “wohltemperiert” (well-tempered) alludes to Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier, suggesting a structured yet playful approach to the ragtime form. It is an example of Hindemith’s interest in musical experimentation and his ability to integrate different styles.
• “Der Schwanendreher” (Concerto for viola and small orchestra) (1935): This viola concerto is one of Hindemith’s most popular works and a central piece in the viola repertoire. It is based on German folk songs, which the soloist plays “like a wandering minstrel playing old tunes on a hurdy-gurdy.” The concerto is rich in melodic beauty and demonstrates Hindemith’s mastery of polyphony and counterpoint.

George Gershwin (1898-1937) was an American composer who integrated jazz elements into classical forms.

• “Cuban Overture” (1932): Originally called “Rhumba,” this overture was inspired by Gershwin’s trip to Cuba. It is full of lively rhythms, Caribbean melodies, and pulsating energy that capture the colorful life and music of Havana.
• “An American in Paris” (1928): This symphonic poem is one of Gershwin’s most famous works. It musically describes the impressions of an American tourist in Paris, from the bustling streets and cafes to a feeling of nostalgia. It incorporates jazz idioms and even the honking of Parisian taxis, and is a masterpiece of program music.

Riccardo Chailly is a world-renowned Italian conductor and has been Music Director of the Teatro alla Scala since 2015. He is known for his precise and detailed interpretations of a wide repertoire, from Verdi to contemporary composers. His performances are characterized by analytical clarity and emotional depth.

Simonide Braconi is an outstanding violist and principal violist of the Filarmonica della Scala. He is known for his virtuosity and deep musical sensibility.