Program | 
Carl Nielsen: Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 33
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 36

Having spent many years as an orchestral violinist, Carl Nielsen combined his intimate knowledge of the instrument with a deep understanding of symphonic language to compose his only violin concerto in 1911. Dedicated to his esteemed colleague Peder Møller, the work reflects Nielsen’s unique musical vocabulary while leaning toward the "Neoclassical" style of the early 20th century. The piece opens with an improvisatory prelude reminiscent of a Baroque suite, followed by an Allegro marked "Allegro cavalleresco" (Chivalrous Allegro), suggesting a warrior embarking on an adventurous journey. The second movement mirrors this structure with slow and fast sections—the former showcasing the soloist's introspective side, while the latter rolls forward with vibrant energy.

In stark contrast, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, composed between 1877 and 1878, was born from the agony of his failed marriage to Antonina Miliukova. This pain is directly reflected in the opening brass fanfare, which the composer described as "Fate—the force that prevents our hopes of happiness from being realized, that jealously ensures peace and comfort are never reached." While a heavy sorrow permeates the symphony, the gloom begins to lift in the final movement. Dedicated to his patroness, Nadezhda von Meck, the work owes much to her unwavering support.
About the Conductor
Maestra Xian Zhang, currently the Music Director of the New Jersey Symphony and a frequent guest with the Seattle Symphony, is known for allowing orchestras a high degree of spontaneity rather than exercising meticulous control. This approach promises a dynamic and emotionally charged collaboration with the NTSO.

Duration: Approx. 120 minutes (including intermission)
Pre-Concert Talk: In collaboration with Nightingale Foundation
Speaker : Tai-Wei Lu 
Time : 1 hour before the concert 
Venue : Tainan Cultural Center Lobby 

The organizers reserve the right to modify the program. Please refer to official announcements for the latest updates.