Seattle Symphony: Shostakovich Symphony No. 15

Johann Sebastian Bach — Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565
John Harbison — What Do We Make of Bach?
Dmitri Shostakovich — Symphony No. 15 in A major, Op. 141

Wayne Marshall, organ
Ludovic Morlot, conductor

Johann Sebastian Bach – Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565
John Harbison – What Do We Make of Bach?
Dmitri Shostakovich – Symphony No. 15 in A major, Op. 141

Johann Sebastian Bach brings the best out of all musicians — especially the brilliant minds featured on this program. Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 15 honors Bach through structural patterns and telltale themes, resulting in a stunningly clear and refined swan song from the 20th century’s greatest symphonist. Conductor Leopold Stokowski had a special affection for Bach, and his lush symphonic arrangement of the Toccata and Fugue in D minor radiates the full power of this iconic organ composition. John Harbison, a giant among living American composers, has long cited Bach as a primary influence. His other great love is jazz and the American songbook tradition, which contributes to the consistent warmth and humanity of his writing. His Bach-inspired symphony features the spectacular Watjen Concert Organ, the envy of every concert hall in the world.

The Seattle Symphony invites young people ages 8 to 18 to attend most Delta Air Lines Masterworks, Seattle Pops, and Untuxed series performances FREE with the purchase of an adult ticket. Family Connections tickets are available at the time of adult ticket purchase by phone and in-person only at the Seattle Symphony Ticket Office. For more information, visit the Seattle Symphony Family Connections page.

About Seattle Symphony

Recognized as one of the “most vital American orchestras” (NPR), the Seattle Symphony is internationally acclaimed for its inventive programming, community-minded initiatives, and superb recordings on the Seattle Symphony Media label. With a strong commitment to new music and a legacy of over 150 recordings, the orchestra has garnered five Grammy Awards, 26 Grammy nominations, and two Emmy Awards, and was named Gramophone’s 2018 Orchestra of the Year. The Symphony performs in Benaroya Hall in the heart of downtown Seattle.

https://www.seattlesymphony.org/