Hear the Aiken Symphony, led by Music Director & Conductor Dr. Scott Weiss, perform music by the greatest composers of all time in “The Three B’s” on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at 3 p.m. at the Etherredge Center at USC Aiken. On the program is Bach’s “Prelude in B Minor, BWV 869,” Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 in D Major, and Brahms’ Symphony No. 4 in E Minor. 

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) was renowned for his mastery of counterpoint and innovative harmonies, often composing for church settings. His Well-Tempered Clavier, a collection of 24 preludes and fugues for organ, remains famous for its complexity. The concert opens with the “Prelude in B Minor” from this collection, transcribed for string orchestra by 20th-century conductor Leopold Stokowski.

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) composed nine symphonies that bridge the Classical and Romantic eras, with his second symphony marking the former and his third, “Eroica,” signaling the latter. While writing his second symphony (1801-1802), Beethoven faced his growing deafness but still went on to create seven more symphonies and countless masterpieces despite his hearing loss.

Beethoven’s legacy cast a long shadow over Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) as he composed his symphonies. His first symphony, often called “Beethoven’s Tenth,” took twenty years to complete but was well received. Brahms’ fourth and final symphony, praised by Richard Strauss as “a giant work, great in concept and invention,” solidified his place among symphonic composers, with its first movement culminating in one of classical music’s greatest climaxes.

Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms each left an indelible mark on music history, and this concert is set to bring their brilliance to life in the Aiken community. Your Aiken Symphony continues to celebrate its tenth anniversary in this second Masterworks performance showcasing its mission to share its musical excellence with the CSRA and beyond. 

Tickets: Single tickets are either $45 or $60 depending on seat selection. Active military members can receive $10 off per ticket by calling the office. Tickets are available via the website (aikensymphony.com) or by contacting the office at 803.220.7251 and can be printed at home, presented via e-ticket on a mobile device, or picked up at the venue beginning 1 ½ hours before the start of the concert.

Parking: Free parking is available in parking lots “C” and “D” adjacent to the Etherredge Center.

Pre-Concert Talk “Illuminations”: Join Dr. Scott Weiss in the Main Theatre at 6:30 p.m. on the concert day.