A Finnish Celebration

For Finland at the beginning of the twentieth century, it was a difficult time. Russia was imposing its sanctions on Finnish language and culture, and the public’s yearning to be free and independent was growing. Upon hearing Sibelius’ Second Symphony, it was immediately dubbed the “Symphony of Independence” and the grandiose finale is reminiscent of a glorious vision of freedom for his oppressed country.

Featuring:

Christian Robinson (violin)

As part of the Canadian culture of independent thought and freedom of expression, we are delighted to be able to present the premiere of a Canadian concerto. Our own composer in residence from 2008-2009, Robert Lemay is a composer of international renown and we are lucky to have him in our northern Ontario community. The violin concerto was written especially for the SSO and our concertmaster Christian Robinson.

Programme:

• Sibelius: Finlandia
• Lemay: Et une porte d'ombre se referme, concerto for violin and orchestra (World Premiere Performance, OAC Commission)
• –Intermission—
• Sibelius: Symphony #2

About the Guest Artist

Sudbury Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster Christian Robinson completed his undergraduate performance degree at the University of Toronto, where he functioned as Concertmaster of the University orchestra, and was awarded the Felix Galimir prize for chamber music performance. As one of the busiest and most visible violinists north of Toronto, Christian has earned praise from audiences and critics alike for his vibrant and energetic performances.

 

His chamber music activities have seen him perform in feature concerts at many of Canada’s premier festivals, including the Guelph Spring Festival, Festival of the Sound, and the Banff Summer Arts Festival, collaborating with artists such as Edgar Meyer, Marc Durand, Rob McCosh, and Gary Kulesha. In 2003 he co-founded the Silver Birch String Quartet, which continues to be one of Ontario’s most active young quartets, with concerts throughout the country. In addition, he recently co-produced the SBSQ’s first commercial recording on Montreal’s Effendi record label (FND086 “SILVERBIRCH”), in collaboration with the acclaimed young jazz-pianist John Roney. His chamber music performances with the SBSQ and in other configurations have been broadcast nationally on CBC Radio 2, and Espace Musique.

Sponsored by:

TBA

Masterworks Concert Series Sponsor:

Petryna Advertising

Reception Sponsored by:

Simon's Gallery Grill