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May 15, 2006
Litton's Finale (0)
Karen was moved to tears. She said it was the first time. We had just heard the performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Dallas Symphony Chorus. We have been to see several performances this year. Unlike other times, this year we saw the symphony more often and each time was an incredible experience.
Mahler’s 2nd, “resurrection” kept me at the edge of my seat. I was wrapped up in each movement. I enjoy classical music, but it has never been as engrossing as it was Saturday night. Sometimes at home, when I have a favorite piece at volume levels that should blow out my ears or my speakers, it can be consuming. But not live. Not until Resurrection.
The performance was also Andrew Litton’s last as the Music Director for the DSO. As long as I have gone to the Dallas Symphony, he has been there guiding the organization. We had not planned to be at this highly regarded conductor’s last performance, but when I realized it last week, I was excited.
The music was emotionally charged, but so was the evening. As Mr. Litton accepted the key to the city before the performance and come out time and again to the standing ovation at the end, he was close to tears. He leaves Dallas with a community that has supported him and musicians who respect and admire him.
As for Karen’s first time being moved to tears—it was not mine. But I’m a sap. I joked that my first time was when I heard “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” While this isn’t true, it’s probably not far from the truth.
Posted by Rich at May 15, 2006 3:45 PM
