A myriad of eclectic instruments—including pots, pans, and metal gadgets—accompany world-renowned percussionist Colin Currie and his BPO brethren in performing Danny Elfman’s Percussion Concerto, which was written for Currie himself. Sounds in the piece are influenced by Elfman’s traveling experience, where he played many metal-based instruments. The concerto, offbeat and idiosyncratic, was orchestrated without brass or woodwinds. Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony was a topic of debate following its composition, as Russian and Western musical tradition joined hands, resulting in a beloved, emotionally lyrical masterpiece. The piece originated as program music—accompanying ideas or a story—about Fate, and its motif can be heard throughout the symphony. Though once plagued by poor reviews and Tchaikovsky’s personal self-doubt, Symphony No. 5 endures and proves its widespread appeal as it continues to bring enjoyment to concert halls like Kleinhans.

JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Colin Currie, percussion

DANNY ELFMAN  Percussion Concerto
TCHAIKOVSKY  Symphony No. 5 in E minor