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.

Composer Danny Elfman will be in Buffalo attending both performances of his Percussion Concerto on March 7 and 8 and expects to address the audience from the stage at both the Saturday evening and Sunday matinee concerts.

For audiences, this is a rare opportunity to experience a major contemporary composer in the hall as his music is performed. Music Director JoAnn Falletta leads the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra with internationally acclaimed percussionist Colin Currie as soloist in Elfman’s electrifying Percussion Concerto.

Following the Saturday evening performance only, Danny Elfman and JoAnn Falletta will greet patrons for a special CD signing celebrating their recording collaborations.

Two albums will be available for purchase that evening:

Percussion Concerto & Wunderkammer (2024 release) – $25
Featuring the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic under JoAnn Falletta, including the Percussion Concerto written for Colin Currie.

Violin Concerto “Eleven Eleven” – $20
A dramatic and compelling concerto noir paired with Adolphus Hailstork’s Piano Concerto No. 1.

Due to time and inventory limitations, signing will be limited to these two CDs only. Patrons may have one of each album signed (maximum two total per person). Previously purchased copies of these same albums may also be signed. No other items will be eligible. Quantities are limited.

Join us for an unforgettable weekend as we welcome one of today’s most celebrated composers to Kleinhans Music Hall.

Program

JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Colin Currie, percussion

DANNY ELFMAN  Percussion Concerto
I. Triangle
II. D.S.C.H.
III. Down
IV. Syncopate

INTERMISSION

TCHAIKOVSKY  Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64
I. Andante – Allegro con anima
II. Andante cantabile, con alcuna licenza
III. Valse: Allegro moderato
IV. Finale: Andante maestoso – Allegro vivace

The Classics Series is presented by the