Cellist Joshua Roman is no stranger to Columbus audiences. On this trip, however, you'll get to know him a little better. Rather than interpreting music written by others, he unveils his own composition.
Awakenings is Josh's first cello concerto and is a monumental undertaking.
Awakenings received it's first performance with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra last October with David Danzmayr conducting. Writing in the Chicago Classical Review, Lawrence A. Phillips had this to say about Roman's inaugural effort.
Roman said the title reflects a personal journey of sorts, from an unhappy love affair to darkness and anger and then a reawakening with the support of others. “No one stands alone,” said Roman of the work’s inspiration.
Joshua spoke with me recently on Classical 101.
The Saturday and Sunday concerts also feature Beethoven's Symphony No. 4 and Concerto Grosso in D Minor “La Folia” (after Corelli) by Geminiani. For more information about this weekend's concerts, visit promusicacolumbus.org.
Here's Joshua playing the Dvorak Cello Concerto with Chicago Camerata
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wm_tC1eiaV8