Twenty-one years of waiting. Hilary Hahn. Mendelssohn.
On Sept. 23 and 24, world-renowned violinist Hilary Hahn graced the Stifel Theater after an absence of over two decades. Accompanied by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of conductor Stéphane Denève, Hahn’s performance was nothing short of magical, with the audience in awe and sparking standing ovations.
The program featured extravagant repertoire. The night began with Richard Strauss’ “Don Juan,” a piece known for its iconic opening (an infamous orchestral audition excerpt) and intricate orchestration.
Next was Hahn’s enthralling and emotional interpretation of the violin concerto in E minor, op. 64, by Felix Mendelssohn. The three-time Grammy award-winning violinist and alumna of Curtis Institute of Music, the most selective music conservatory in the world, displayed exceptional virtuosity and precision throughout her performance.
From the first note, she captivated the entire audience. Her light, rhythmic feet drew out the contour of her playing, bridging the orchestra into one spectacular entity. As she started her sizzling cadenza, a silence spread across the hall. Her sound resonated unlike any other. Exceptionally clean, she played each double stop with caring attention, treating her violin like a canvas.
After her incredible concerto, Hahn did not disappoint with her encores. On Saturday night, she played “Through My Mother’s Eyes” by Steven Banks, an emotional piece commissioned for her by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Sunday’s concert was equally spectacular, as she offered not one but two movements of solo Bach.
Following a short intermission, the concert’s extravagance continued with W. A. Mozart’s “The Magic Flute Overture” and Paul Dukas’ “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.” The orchestra’s precision and conductor Stéphane Denève’s interpretation brought each piece to life. The evening concluded with Richard Strauss’ whimsical “Till Eulenspiegel’s Merry Pranks.”
The concert’s atmosphere was electrifying, with the audience engaged from start to finish.
On Saturday night, members of the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra met Hahn personally for a unique photo opportunity. She also stood in line twice for autographs and the chance to converse with her, both during the intermission and after the concert.
Hahn’s long-awaited return to St. Louis was a musical celebration and united classical enthusiasts, young musicians and seasoned concert-goers. It was a must-see event.
Listen to Hilary Hahn’s Music on Spotify.
