In a letter addressed to a friend, Brahms wrote in 1872 the following: “You cannot imagine the constant sensation of hearing a giant walk behind you”. That giant was Beethoven. Perhaps that is why it took Brahms more than twenty years to compose his first symphony, premiered in 1876. As a result, there are those who point to similarities with emblematic moments of Beethoven’s symphonies, such as the famous rhythmic motif of the Fifth Symphony, which can be seen in the heart of the first tempo, and the melody that stands out in the last, with an identical character to the Hymn to Joy that is heard at the end of the Ninth. In this program, the giant’s footsteps are projected at the opening of the play Egmont. And, because it is Christmas, Orquestra Metropolitana de Lisboa also adds a short musical note dedicated to such a special time of the year.

Programme

L. Beethoven, Opening of the play Egmont
J. Brahms, Symphony No. 1
Several, Three Christmas Themes (arranged by Todd Hayen, Ron Goldstein and Chris Ridenhour)