MUSCATINE, Iowa–As the Muscatine Symphony Orchestra concludes their 2022-2023 season, they look forward to ending their annual concert series on a high note. April 15 at 7 p.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church (400 Iowa Avenue in Muscatine) “MasterWorks V: Dvorak Second to None” will feature the works of two legendary symphonic composers as well as a guest performance by talented French hornist Marc Zyla.
As spring bursts forth with new life, the Symphony’s upcoming concert will feature many lively pieces that celebrate the joy of symphonic music. Antonin Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 in G major will provide the centerpiece for the performance, delighting audiences with one of Dvorak’s greatest but less played masterpieces. “Dvorak’s music has always been a thrill for me to not only conduct, but perform as a double bassist,” shared Muscatine Symphony Orchestra Music Director and Conductor Brian Dollinger: “It is very upbeat and jovial, even with his usage of minor key areas. A truly brilliant and upbeat conclusion awaits the listener that harkens back to the country home of Dvorak among the forest of rustling trees and singing birds.”
To accompany the superbness of Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 in G major, the Symphony will play two pieces by Mozart, the overture to the opera “Don Giovanni,” which viewers of the movie “Amadeus” will recognize, as well as his third horn concerto. “There is a level of intellect combined with expected innocence in Mozart’s music,” Dollinger observed. “Even when it gets most detailed and complicated, the listener can sense where they are going and how they will arrive at their final destination.”
For the horn concerto, Zyla will perform on French horn, adding additional vigor to the piece. A longtime collaborator with the Muscatine Symphony Orchestra, Dollinger welcomes the opportunity to bring him back to have his artistry shine once again. “His depth of tone and musicality will definitely bring a special performance with the symphony,” he said: “I am very eager to hear him play in our performance space at Wesley United Methodist Church. The space combined with his sound will definitely be a great pairing.”
Mark Zyla, French hornist. Photo courtesy the Muscatine Symphony Orchestra.
An evening of music that has stirred listeners for generations, Dollinger looks forward to bringing it to life again and sharing it with listeners of all ages and experience levels. “I believe that there are some composers like Mozart and Dvorak whose music and gifts to mankind will transcend us all and continue to live for an eternity,” Dollinger reflected.
Tickets for “MasterWorks V” cost $15 apiece for adults; students with identification may attend for free. Anyone wanting to purchase tickets may buy them online through the symphony’s website or at the door.
As Dollinger prepares for the Symphony’s triumphant conclusion, he reflected positively on how this year’s season has gone: “Each year, as I look back over what has been accomplished, I am always proud and amazed at what we have right here in Muscatine. For 19 years, I have been privileged to lead and grow this orchestra into a truly wonderful group of musicians who tackle every musical task with passion and excitement. We have had a wonderful year of symphonic pieces and exemplary guest artists.”
