One of history’s mysteries is entwined with a selection in the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera’s Masterworks concert tonight, Oct. 22.
The all-Brahms concert will open with the composer’s “Variations on a Theme by Haydn,” though Joseph Haydn’s participation is a matter of some dispute.
Brahms composed the work on a theme titled “Chorale St. Antoni” found in a wind ensemble composition. At the time, it carried an attribution to Haydn, so Brahms titled his own composition accordingly, crediting Haydn for the theme.
But publishers in the early 19th century often attached the names of famous composers to works by unknown or lesser-known composers to move inventory. Research has concluded that the wind piece Brahms used as a source does not fit Haydn’s style, and it remains without clear attribution. Thus, modern recordings and concert programs often refer to the composition the “St. Anthony Variations” as well as its original title.
The highlight of the concert is Brahms’ German Requiem, written to comfort the living, not for the souls of the dead. CSO officials say the masterpiece was immediately recognized by critics as one of exceptional vision as it focuses on faith in the Resurrection rather than fear of the Day of Judgment, as a typical Requiem might.
For this work, CSO musicians will be joined by the CSO Chorus, directed by Darrin Hassevoort, as well as the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Chamber Singers and Chattanooga Singers, led by Kevin Ford. The two soloists for the work are baritone Robert Barefield and soprano Carole Fitzpatrick. The CSO will be conducted by Kayoko Dan.
Also among tonight’s guests will be Fred Child, host of American Public Media’s “Performance Today.” He will welcome the audience at the top of the performance.
Child is visiting as a thank-you to supporters of WSMC 90.5 FM, Southern Adventist University’s classical music station. After “Performance Today” was cut due to budget cuts, listeners donated enough funds to return the show to the air for another year. Child has addressed local groups on the value of arts in the community.
Names of note
‘ CSO conductor: Kayoko Dan
‘ Soloists: Carole Fitzpatrick (soprano) and Robert Barefield (baritone)
‘ Choruses: CSO Chorus, directed by Darrin Hassevoort; UTC Chamber Singers and Chattanooga Singers, directed by Kevin Ford
‘ Welcome: Fred Child, host of “Performance Today”
If you go
‘ What: Chattanooga Symphony & Opera presents Brahms’ Requiem
‘ When: 7:30 p.m today, Oct. 22
‘ Where: Tivoli Theatre, 709 Broad St.
‘ Admission: $37 to $83 adults, $15 students with valid ID; free to children 17 and under with paying adult
‘ Phone: 423-267-8583
‘ Website: www.ChattanoogaSymphony.org