Delaware Symphony Orchestra concert set Nov. 17 in Lewes

The Delaware Symphony Orchestra continues its 119th Spotlight Season with a program led by its second of four music director finalists. Ciabatti Conducts Beethoven is set for 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 17, at Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes. Finalist candidate Filippo Ciabatti will take the podium for this performance, joined by guest cellist Tommy Mesa, who will perform on Shostakovich’s “Cello Concerto No. 1.”

The program will open with contemporary composer Carlos Simon’s 2021 piece, “Fate Now Conquers,” and close with Beethoven’s iconic “Fifth Symphony.” The concert run time is about 85 minutes plus a 20-minute intermission.

Ciabatti said, "Beethoven and Shostakovich were both obsessed with their own fate and mortality. Beethoven struggled almost all of his life with a hearing problem, which eventually resulted in complete deafness. We know from his letters how devastating that was for him. Shostakovich lived in Russia during the Communist regime, which was constantly threatening his art and livelihood. The three composers in this program – Beethoven, Shostakovich and Carlos Simon, whose piece is inspired by Beethoven’s struggles – wrote works which alternate between great angst and warm lyricism. Despite his personal struggles, Beethoven ends his iconic Fifth Symphony with a message of hope. I find that so touching and inspiring, and I’m excited to share this musical range of emotions with our audience.”

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to DelawareSymphony.org.