As temperatures finally begin to rise after dipping into the single digits, and last week’s snowfall becomes a frosty memory, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on winter’s beauty. This Wednesday, January 29, Raymond Jones invites you to join “A Local Touch: Music with a Virginia Connection” at 9:00 PM, where you’ll discover the finest classical music rooted in Virginia’s musical community.
This winter-themed episode begins with a special connection to The Heifetz International Music Institute in Staunton. We’ll be serenaded with some of the most fitting melodies for these cold winter days, including Vivaldi’s "Winter" from “The Four Seasons, and Tchaikovsky’s “The Seasons, Op. 37: XII. December.”
Next, we head back to Virginia Beach to delve into another of Tchaikovsky’s evocative pieces. His Symphony No. 1 in G minor, Op. 13 “Winter Daydreams,” performed by Symphonicity under Daniel W. Boothe, breathes winter melancholy in its second movement, but after a third energetic movement, Boothe will lead the orchestra to the perfect climax.
And no visit to Virginia Beach would be complete without a stunning interpretation of Samuel Barber’s Symphony No. 1, Op. 9, conducted by the incredible JoAnn Falletta with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra.
Continuing our journey through Hampton Roads, the U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band, under the direction of Major Douglas Monroe, will perform a selection of traditional winter tunes, including "Winter Apples" and "Drive the Cold Winter Away," bringing a festive touch to the season.
From the University of Richmond, we’ll enjoy the voices of Schola Cantorum, led by Jeffrey Riehl. This choir, known for its exceptional interpretation of choral music, will perform classics such as Thomas Tallis’s “If Ye Love Me,” a beautiful motet known for its clear, harmonious polyphony. We’ll also hear the heartfelt “That Lonesome Road,” arranged by Simon Carrington, and Kurt Bestor’s poignant “Prayers of the Children,” written in response to the Yugoslav Wars. This moving piece has been performed by choirs worldwide for its powerful message of peace and hope.
We hope these winter melodies bring peace and warmth to your soul this Wednesday, January 29. Don’t miss your chance to experience this winter wonderland of music with a Virginia connection. Tune in to WHRO FM 90.3 at 9 p.m. for “A Local Touch,” and remember, you can listen online via your smart device or WHRO’s Media Player.