15 Sep 2018

TCHAIKOVSKY: Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture

From Music Alive, 7:30 pm on 15 September 2018

Shakespeare's young hero and heroine, whose families are implacable enemies become classic star-crossed lovers.

Statue of Tchaikovsky near his garden at Klin

Statue of Tchaikovsky near his garden at Klin Photo: CC BY-SA 3.0

New Zealand Symphony Orchestra conducted by Hamish McKeich

Many composers have been inspired to write music for the young lovers' story.

Tchaikovsky's 'Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture' of 1869 is his supreme early orchestral achievement. The music begins with a hymn-like introduction suggesting Friar Laurence's cell, then the Capulets and Montagues feud in a fiery passage, giving way to the love scene.  A furious climax may be the death of Tybalt at the hand of Romeo, but the love music dominates the ending, turning gradually to lament and tragic despair.

Recorded 15 September 2018, Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington by RNZ Concert

Producer: David McCaw

Engineer: Graham Kennedy

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