Antje Weithaas

Program: Jörg Widmann, Jagdquartett (version for string orchestra) / Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sinfonia concertante / Jörg Widmann, Aria / Antonín Dvořák, Serenade for Strings Credits: Amsterdam Sinfonietta / Antje Weithaas, direction, violin / Georgy Kovalev, viola Widmann’s theatrical Jagdquartett takes its title from Mozart’s masterful string quartet of the same name. The work demands dramatic flair from the musicians; imagine a chase that ends with the cellist’s downfall. Dvořák’s Serenade for strings is one of the most important pieces in the string orchestra repertoire. It is cherished for its lush melodies and graceful atmosphere, brimming with Slavic zeal and distinctive rhythms. In the 18th century, the sinfonia concertante, a symphony with solo parts, was a very popular genre. Audiences enjoyed the spectacular rivalry between the various soloists. Leopold Mozart persuaded his son Wolfgang to master this genre, and Mozart created a profound and lively interaction between the soloists and the orchestra.