UI Philharmonia Orchestra

The University of Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra performs major literature from the 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. It comprises students representing upwards of 35 majors from throughout the university community. The orchestra rehearses twice weekly and ​typically performs two concerts a semester.

The Philharmonia Orchestra performs Mendelssohn's joyful Symphony No. 4. Nicknamed the Italian Symphony, this work encapsulates the composer's efforts to portray his impressions from his 10-month visit to Italy in 1830. From Rome, Mendelssohn stated in a letter to his sister that, "The Italian symphony is making great progress. It will be the jolliest piece I have ever done, especially the last movement."

Paired with the Italian Symphony is Louise Farrenc's Overture No. 1 in E Minor. Farrenc is an exact contemporary of Mendelssohn, and a notable aspect of her trailblazing career is that she was the first woman appointed to teach at the all-male Paris Conservatory. Her Overture No. 1 is equally trailblazing in its juxtaposing of lyricism with restless agitation.

Farrenc: Overture No. 1 in E Minor
Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4 in A Major, "Italian"

Pre-Concert Talk with Jeff Sposato, 6:45pm-7:10pm
Music and Performing Arts Library Reading Room (Music Building)