Mark your calendars: The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra (ASO) will present a special chamber concert dubbed Bach, Brandenburgers & Brews Friday, Jan. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Alexandria.
Under the direction of new Music Director James Ross, members of the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra will present three Brandenburg Concertos, featuring soloists who regularly perform as principals with the orchestra.
Widely regarded as some of the finest compositions of the Baroque era, the Brandenburg Concertos pair unusual combinations of solo instruments for each concerto. Concerto No. 2 in F major features a trumpet, oboe and violin while Concerto No. 4 in G major presents a violin and two flutes. Concerto No. 5 in D major combines a harpsichord, violin and flute. Soloists are accompanied by the others players, called the ripieno.
“Given the popularity of the Brandenburg Concerti among lots of people, the idea of presenting this joyous music in one of Alexandria's historic churches grabbed my imagination,” said Ross. “For our players, it is a chance to touch a kind of music that hasn't been presented much in ASO programming. Unless you are a period practice player, performances of baroque music on modern instruments is a sadly missing component from the life of a modern free-lance player. This will also be a very different experience for the audience than most ASO concerts, and I’ll invite attendees to participate with a surprise element during the concert.”
Immediately following the performance, the audience is invited to a reception serving “Alexander Brandenburgers” specially created for the occasion, craft beer and German delicacies, generously provided by Port City Brewery, Pork Barrel BBQ and the German Gourmet. Enjoy food and mingle with the musicians. All ages are welcome. Dress is casual.
Tickets are $40 for adults and $5 for youth (18 and under). To order tickets and for more information, visit www.alexsym.org or call (703) 548-0885.
