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Exploring the Unique Journey of 'Drizzle'
On March 23, the San José Chamber Orchestra (SJCO) will unveil a composition that defies typical classical boundaries. Titled Drizzle, Downpour, Desperation and Other Stories, the work promises a blend of familial connection through music with an emotional richness inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic. The piece is a triple concerto featuring the Fong-Costanza Family Trio—comprising violinist Debra Fong, cellist Christopher Costanza, and violist Ezra Costanza—crafted by the talented Durwynne Hsieh, whose collaboration with the orchestra spans over 15 years.
An Emotional Backdrop of Inspiration
Hsieh’s latest work is rooted in the emotional upheaval experienced during the pandemic, with its musical structure reflecting various feelings associated with those challenging times. The concerto, written in a key that symbolizes 'C for COVID', is divided into three distinct tone poems. According to Fong, Hsieh has the remarkable ability to capture the essence of their experiences through music, describing his compositions as “quirky in a fun way” while also conveying the weight of their shared memories.
The Family Dynamic Takes Center Stage
In a landscape where soloists often dominate concert programs, showcasing the Fong-Costanza family's collaborative talent brings a refreshing perspective. According to Hsieh, the aim was to maintain a balance of highlighting individual prowess while reinforcing their bond as a family. This approach is particularly poignant, as these musicians are not just performing together; they are sharing an intimate expression of familial love and resilience.
Highlighting a Virtuous Trio
The Fong-Costanza Trio's performance is set against a backdrop that even seasoned concert-goers may find striking. Despite the scarcity of triple concertos in classical music—with few standing out beyond Beethoven’s works—Hsieh’s composition carves its own niche, promising to resonate powerfully with audiences. Costanza notes, “It’s like a well-written, evocative film score, bringing images to mind.”
Connecting Music and Community through Live Performance
This premiere is more than just a concert; it’s an opportunity for the San José community to reconnect through the shared experience of live music as we gradually emerge from the pandemic. For sure, the anticipation surrounding Hsieh’s piece is a reminder of how music's role in community can foster healing and unity.
Embracing Live Concerts in a Changed World
In a post-pandemic world, live performances symbolize a return to normalcy, connecting artists with their audiences in profound ways. Events like this serve not only to entertain but to inspire hope and resilience, testament to the enduring power of the arts. For those in the San José area, attending the SJCO’s performance provides an exhilarating chance to experience a unique blend of family talent and rich, evocative storytelling through music.
Final Thoughts: The Promise of New Beginnings
As we look toward the premiere of Drizzle, Downpour, Desperation and Other Stories, we are reminded of the transformative nature of music and the stories it tells. This concert stands as a significant milestone not only for the performers but for everyone who has felt the impacts of the past few years. Be sure to mark your calendars, as this performance is poised to enchant and move audiences profoundly.
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