WHRO-FM is not only classical music for eastern Virginia but also for northeastern North Carolina. This Wednesday evening at 9:00 on A Local Touch, we’re taking a field trip to the Old North State. Our program promises an enchanting journey through a selection of magnificent pieces that celebrate the rich musical heritage of North Carolina, a state whose culture and artistry resonate deeply with our audience.
The evening kicks off with the esteemed Gerhardt Zimmermann leading the North Carolina Symphony in a stirring performance of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4. Following this, Zimmerman conducts Richard Strauss’s “Also sprach Zarathustra,” a tone poem that has captivated listeners for generations with its powerful and evocative themes.
The baton is then passed to Grant Llewellyn, who continues the musical journey with the North Carolina Symphony. He is joined by the renowned Virginia cellist Zuill Bailey in a performance of Prokofiev’s Sinfonia Concertante.
Adding to the diversity of the program, the Yale Russian Chorus performs at Duke University, bringing a touch of choral excellence to our lineup. Their rendition of religious works will offer a serene contrast to the orchestral pieces.
As a special nod to the region's history, we’ll also feature some Civil War tunes performed by the 11th North Carolina Regimental Band. These pieces provide a historical context, enriching our understanding of the cultural and musical landscape of North Carolina during a pivotal time in American history.
Tune in to WHRO FM 90.3, or stream online, this Wednesday evening at 9:00 as we cross the border to discover the shared musical heritage that unites us.