Beca Artist Series: Wolfgang Emanuel Schmidt

Mendelssohn Hebrides Overture op 26
Haydn Cello Concerto Hob. Vllb:1 C major
Schumann Symphony No 4 op.120 D minor

Wolfgang Emanuel Schmidt – Cello / Director

Described by Mstislav Rostropovich as “one of the leading cellists of his generation, in our time”, Wolfgang Emanuel Schmidt was the 1st prize winner of the inaugural Christchurch-based Adam International Cello Competition.

Since then he has become a highly sought after soloist, chamber musician and conductor, appearing with some of the finest orchestras in Europe including the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig, Deutsche Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France in Paris and Prague Philharmonia.

Schmidt will perform Haydn’s Cello Concerto in C major and lead the orchestra in performances of two works by the great romantic composers – Mendelssohn and Schumann.

Whilst holidaying in Scotland, Mendelssohn was especially moved by the extraordinary scenery of the Hebrides. The resulting atmospheric overture captures the dramatic sea, sky and land formations of the region.

Schumann’s fourth and final symphony was composed during one of the happiest periods of his life, shortly following his marriage to his beloved Clara. The symphony traverses darkly dramatic moments, a lyrical and tender romance, and concludes with an exultant and vibrant finale.

*Please note that vehicle access to the Papanui Road entrance of St Margaret’s College has been restricted due to safety concerns. The pedestrian entrances on Winchester, Andover and Shrewsbury Streets will be open and there is acarpark on Andover Street for people with mobility stickers and concerns.