The Puget Sound Symphony Orchestra opens with Bernstein’s raucous Candide Overture, a fitting piece to commemorate the PSSO’s first performance since the start of the pandemic. Next, they’ll perform Strauss’ Death and Transfiguration. The pandemic has affected people in different ways; the grim reality that many of us have lost loved ones cannot be ignored. Strauss’ piece embodies the tragedies of the pandemic head on, covering raw human emotions such as reminiscing about the past, the loneliness of palliative care, and the prospect of transitioning to the next life. Finally, they conclude with Hanson’s Symphony No. 2 (a.k.a. “Romantic”). Featured in the closing credits of the original Alien movie (albeit without the composer’s permission), this thematic work is filled with rich, uplifting themes. Uncertainty surrounds us, but Hanson’s work reminds us to love life to the fullest, here and now, even knowing that better times are to come.

Program

Overture to Candide – Bernstein

Death and Transfiguration – Strauss

Symphony No. 2 – Howard Hanson

Purchase tickets here! $10 Advance, $15 at the door.

Presented by Puget Sound Symphony Orchestra.