West Hartford Orchestra To Pay Tribute To Lincoln At Special Concert

West Hartford Symphony Orchestra

WEST HARTFORD, CT — The West Hartford Symphony Orchestra is marking the 160th anniversary of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln at a special concert slated for Sunday, March 23.

The show — called "Lincoln and Beethoven: A Commemoration of Abraham Lincoln" — begins at 3 p.m. in the Hoffman Auditorium at the University of Saint Joseph, 1678 Asylum St., West Hartford.

American composer John Williams wrote the music for the film "Lincoln" and two pieces from that movie will be performed at the concert.

“The People’s House” and “With Malice Toward None” are standouts from the musical score, the latter piece written for solo trumpet and orchestra.

The music of Williams has certainly been influenced by fellow American composer Aaron Copland whose famous 1942 “Lincoln Portrait” for orchestra and narrator will close out the performance.

But why Beethoven?

Lincoln loved music, and while his favorite song was “Dixie,” he also loved opera, folk, and patriotic music.

In terms of what is labeled classical music, he admired the music of Beethoven, hence this concert’s “Overture to Fidelio.”

The “Were We Young Again” duet, sung by Sheri Ziccardi and Christopher Stone is from Chiarappa’s musical "Lincoln and Booth," revealing a rare and peaceful moment between the Lincolns as they reflected upon choices made throughout their lives.

General seating is $20 with tickets for seniors and students at $15. Children under 12 are free. Tickets can be purchased online at whso.org, by phone at 860-521-4362, or in the lobby on the day of the concert. Doors open at 2:30 p.m.

For more information on the West Hartford Symphony Orchestra, click on this link.