When internationally-renowned pianist and recording artist Beth Levin takes the Count Basie stage on February 9, the audience will know immediately that they are in the presence of greatness.
Joining the Monmouth Symphony Orchestra, led by Assistant Conductor Lucian Rinando, Ms. Levin will perform Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5, the “Emperor”. The last and most beloved of Beethoven’s piano concerti, the work will provide a wonderful showcase for Levin’s abilities. Known as a specialist in interpreting the piano works of Beethoven, Ms. Levin’s latest CD, titled “A Single Breath”, features the composer’s final three piano sonatas. Allan Kozinn of the New York Times called her “a pianist with a bold interpretive personality and a powerful technique.”
Also on the all-Beethoven concert will be the Overture to Fidelio, Beethoven’s only opera. The “Pastoral” Symphony, No. 6, which represents some of the happiest music Beethoven ever wrote, will round out the program. One of the few Beethoven works to have programmatic elements, the music is suggestive of a walk in the countryside, complete with babbling brook, bird calls, country dances, a thunderstorm, and thankful shepherds.
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Prior to the performance, Monmouth Symphony Orchestra host Tom Avakian will interview soloist Beth Levin in the theatre at 2:15 p.m.
Ticket prices are $35 for adults, $30 for seniors and only $5 for students. Special half-price rush tickets for adults and seniors are available the day of the performance. For tickets, call the Count Basie Theatre box office at 732-842-9000.
