BCSO presents Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich
The Butler County Symphony Orchestra returned for another electrifying performance Saturday, Feb. 8.
The performance featured two of the most powerful works in classical music repertoire: Tchaikovsky’s “Violin Concerto in D Major” and Dmitri Shostakovich’s “Symphony No. 5 in D Minor.”
The group was led by guest conductor Austin Chanu, who marked his final appearance with the BCSO this season. The orchestra will welcome a new guest conductor in March. Chanu, one of three finalists for the permanent music director position, once again showcased his ability to lead the symphony with both technical and expressive precision.
The evening opened with Tchaikovsky’s work, a piece now regarded as one of the greatest violin concertos ever written. The idea comes with true irony, given that when it was composed in 1878, it was said to be unplayable due to its difficulty. At the time, it was rejected by several music critics. However, today, it stands as a staple in violin repertoire, beloved for its soaring melodies and emotional depth.
Performing the demanding violin solo was David Kim, concertmaster of the Philadelphia Orchestra. A two-time graduate of the Juilliard School, Kim has built a distinguished career as a soloist, educator, and leader in the classical music world. In recognition of his contributions, he has been awarded three honorary doctorates from prestigious institutions.
Kim brought a shocking experience to the stage, playing on a Guadagnini violin from Milan, Italy, from 1757, owned by the Philadelphia Orchestra. Though not his personal instrument, Kim has the privilege of performing with it as long as he remains concertmaster — a role he has held since 1999.
Kim’s interpretation of the concerto was nothing short of breathtaking. From the opening movement’s delicate yet passionate themes all the way to the lively, dance-like finale, he demonstrated remarkable talent and expression. His ability to navigate Tchaikovksy’s instant change of emotion with ease and clarity was truly amazing, especially given that he has been performing the concerto since the age of 12.
The audience was so captivated by Kim’s performance they broke tradition and gave him a standing ovation after the first movement. Typically, audiences refrain from applauding between movements of a piece, but the sheer amazement of his playing left them no choice but to express admiration in the moment.
Throughout the entire performance, the orchestra provided a solid and well-balanced accompaniment, adapting to Kim’s dynamic playing and showcasing the emotions of the piece.
Following intermission, the BCSO took on Shostakovich’s “Symphony No. 5 in D minor,” a work composed in 1937 under Stalin’s oppressive regime. With his life and career on the line after extreme government criticism, Shostakovich crafted a symphony that outwardly appeared triumphant, yet carried a deep message of struggle and defiance.
The orchestra captured this tension masterfully, from the unease of the first movement, to the longing and sorrow of the third. The finale exploded with intensity, giving off the illusion of victory — though some argue it is a forced and shallow celebration.
Chanu and the BCSO delivered a riveting performance that honored both the symphony’s grand intensity and its underlying meaning.
Though the works were written in different eras and under different circumstances, both of the pieces share a very similar story. Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich each faced harsh scrutiny for their work, yet they went on to become two of the greatest composers in history — an ironic twist that made the performance all the more powerful.
As always, the BCSO played with incredible skill and passion, delivering a performance that captivated the audience from start to finish.
Their next concert, Bizet to Bhrams, will take place in March, introducing another guest conductor to the podium. With such a strong season so far, there’s no doubt that the orchestra will continue to impress and inspire the community.
