Michael Votta, Jr., music director
Jonathan Bisesi, percussion

Chariot races, hunts and battles—these are some of the events that entertained nearly 300,000 spectators at the Circus Maximus. This feat of the ancient Rome empire, the largest arena in the world, served as a grand and raucous center of entertainment. John Corigliano’s Symphony No. 3, “Circus Maximus,” is a reflection of its namesake, embodying the grandeur of the colosseum while simultaneously comparing it to humanity’s current need for constant entertainment. Movements of the symphony move between modern city soundscapes and the noises of the circus, all swirling towards the work’s bombastic conclusion.

This performance will also feature Richard Strauss’ Feierlicher Einzug der Ritter des Johanniter-Ordens and Joseph Schwantner’s Fast Track: Concerto for Percussion and Wind Ensemble, featuring Lecturer Jonathan Bisesi.