Summer is the time when people from all walks of life gather at the Hollywood Bowl.
This iconic spot, nestled in Hollywood Hills under the starry sky of Southern California, shares the experience of true live music.
It is the ideal setting for grand expression — whether it’s a performance or a voices joined in song.
Music is a powerful form of expression, an experience we can all share.
As you sit on venue benches, have picnics on its lawns and marvel at the music that impress audience, the Hollywood Bowl redefines the musical experience.
The evening began with Benjamin Brittens’ An American Overture – an episode piece that offers considerable sonic support for its very pragmatic title. His harmonious and scourged hand suggest Copland’s influence, even jaunty hints of jazz, with the anxiety and stress in the piece moody introduction and spiky central dance episode.
He builds an open circling theme, over a slow, march rhythm, into a strong conflicted climax.
Edward Elgars Cello Concerto in E Minor is more for reticence and sobriety, which before had not been nearly so pervasive in Elgar’s work.
He was deeply troubled by World War I, financially insecure and ill of health.
“I am more alone than ever before,” he said. “ Everything good and nice and clear and fresh and sweet is far away, never to return.”
That lament is reflected in the Cello Concerto, and in no other of his pieces.
