NJPAC in Newark

An orchestra showpiece: Ligeti’s childhood memories of Transylvanian folk music culminate in a wild, exhilarating dance.

A youthful affection inspired this concerto’s tender, passionate slow movement. Though Chopin’s infatuation was short-lived, the melody is eternal.

Deep, heartfelt and dramatic, reflecting the Czech composer’s ambition to write a piece that would “move the world.”

Each of the four wistful and elegant movements commemorates a friend who died in battle during World War I. The oboe shines throughout.

Grand yet nuanced; generations of listeners have loved this piece, and critics have judged it to be among Beethoven’s greatest and most innovative works.

Shostakovich composed this sardonic work at 18; it was an enormous success, instantly bringing him international attention.

Exciting and suspenseful; based on a medieval story of an Elf King who must search the globe for one faithful human couple.

“Music driven by energy, motion and joy of playing.” Mackey’s eclectic piece for violin and electric guitar includes hints of Radiohead, Chicago blues and much more.

Riveting and inspiring; its achingly lovely second movement was unforgettably featured in Children of a Lesser God as actress Marlee Matlin “heard” music.

Beethoven’s heroic and triumphant overture tells the story of his only opera, Fidelio, bringing this palindrome concert to a delightful close.