The Napoleon Complex

Libby Gardner Series

Sunday, January 31, 2027
3:00PM
Libby Gardner Concert Hall
1375 Presidents' Circle
Salt Lake City, Utah 84112

Music by Beethoven, Schoenberg, Hearne, and Schumann

Program

This program takes its inspiration from Beethoven’s complicated relationship with Napoleon Bonaparte - which started with great admiration, only to turn to complete disdain - mirroring the composer’s own views of democratic freedom and his disillusionment with tyranny. Ode to Napoleon - Arnold Schoenberg’s powerful protest against absolutism through the poetry of Lord Byron will feature bass-baritone Timothy Jones who will also sing a trio of Schumann songs that relay themes of conflict: among nations, between brothers, and within one’s own emotions. The program also includes Ted Hearne’s work for prepared piano and percussion One of Us, One of Them and Beethoven’s self-titled “Serioso” string quartet written shortly after Napoleon’s occupation of Vienna.

Ted Hearne (b. 1982): One of Us, One of Them (2005)
Arnold Schoenberg (1874-1951): Ode to Napoleon (1942)
Robert Schumann (1810-1856): Romance & Balladen, Op. 49
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827): String Quartet No. 11 in F minor, Op. 95 “Serioso”

Performers

Kimi Kawashima, prepared piano
Keith Carrick, percussion
Timothy Jones, bass-baritone
Hugh Palmer, violin
Viktor Valkov, piano