Event

LUCO 18|19 - Concert 1

Wagner: Ride of the Valkyries
Wagner: Wotan's Farewell & Magic Fire Music
Mahler: Symphony No. 1

Christophe Chagnard, conductor
Clayton Brainerd, baritone

After 20 years on the podium, I can state with confidence that no other composer elicits such a level of excitement and anticipation with orchestral musicians as Mahler. Performing Mahler's first symphony at Meany Hall was unquestionably a gigantic leap forward in LUCO's artistic development, and one of my most rewarding experiences on the podium. Mahler is exceedingly difficult to play and render in its sheer grandeur and complexity, but it is also immensely gratifying. It is music created for musicians that rewards efforts ten-fold. Leading Mahler feels like an existential journey like no other, spanning the whole of the human condition. Pairing such a monumental creation with the right repertoire takes careful planning, and Wagner has always proven to be a perfect companion. The great baritone Clayton Brainerd was the first singer I worked with when I arrived in the Northwest in 1993. Our partnership of 25 years has included many musical milestones, particularly a memorable Wotan's Farewell.

- Christophe