Triumph Sunday, June 1, 2025 at 4:00 PM PDT

JOSEPH YOUNGconductor
HANZHI WANGbandoneon

GITY RAZAZMethuselah (In Chains of Time) (Bay Area Premiere)

Commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.

ASTOR PIAZZOLLAAconcagua, Concerto for Bandoneon, String Orchestra and Percussion

Hanzhi Wang, bandoneon

DMITRI SHOSTAKOVICHSymphony No. 5 in D minor, Op. 47

The indomitable spirit of human perseverance is on full display in this timely and powerful program. Join us for the Bay Area premiere of Gity Razaz‘s Methuselah (In Chains of Time), which is a lush and poignant reflection on the endurance of life inspired by an ancient Great Basin bristlecone pine tree growing high in the White Mountains of Inyo County in eastern California. Then be transported to the rugged landscapes of South America with Astor Piazzolla‘s Aconcagua, featuring Hanzhi Wang on the bandoneon, who wields the instrument with “staggering virtuosity.” Drawing inspiration from the majestic peaks of the Andes, Piazzolla‘s composition captures the fiery spirit of Argentine tango with its lush melodies and pulsating rhythms. To close out the season, Shostakovich‘s monumental Symphony No. 5 serves as a stirring testament to the triumph of the human spirit over oppression and tyranny. From its brooding opening to its victorious finale, Shostakovich‘s symphony resonates with themes of resilience, redemption, and the enduring promise of hope.