Lamb & Hayward Masterworks: From the New World

PSATHAS Tarantismo
SHOSTAKOVICH Cello Concerto No. 1 op. 107 E-flat major
DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 9 in E minor “From the New World”

Hamish McKeich Conductor
Torleif Thedéen Cello

Swedish cellist Torleif Thedéen makes his CSO debut performing Dimitri Shostakovich’s witty and sardonic Cello Concerto No 1.

Thedéen came to international attention in 1985 after winning both the Rostropovich and Pablo Cassals cello competitions. Today, he performs throughout the globe and his extensive recordings have attracted critical acclaim, including the Cannes Classical Award for his CD of Shostakovich Cello Concertos.

Czech romantic composer Antonín Dvořák composed his ninth symphony during his tenure as Director of the National Conservatory of America. 

This, his final symphony, is heavily influenced by Native American and African American music traditions as well as his beloved Czech folk melodies.

The symphony’s premiere at Carnegie Hall was met by rapturous applause from the audience at the end of every movement. It became an overnight sensation, quickly becoming one of the most popular symphonies of all time. 

The title of John Psathas’ Tarantismo is taken from the term tarantism – the hysterical condition believed to be caused by the bite of the tarantula spider. As far back as 1100 BC, it was believed that this fast paced whirling dance could counter the effects of the tarantula’s venomous bite.