Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances

Rachmaninov’s final orchestral work, musically retracing the course of his own existence, evokes the Russia he was forced to leave behind. Composed in the U. S. just a few years before his death, Rachmaninov drew on folk and sacred motifs as well as themes from his own past works, including the All-Night Vigil and Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. The result is a warm, contemplative, richly textured farewell to life. Under conductor Peter Oundjian, the Seattle Symphony also debuts a Double Concerto commissioned from major American composer Christopher Theofanidis for world-renowned percussionist Svet Stoyanov and concertmaster Noah Geller. Joan Tower’s exciting Concerto for Orchestra Suite rounds out the program.