FRIDAY AND SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 & 21
The Handel and Haydn Society was founded in 1815 by a band of local merchants who decided that Boston's cultural landscape could use a boost. Now, at the start of its 193rd season, the group still takes its mission seriously. And who better to kick things off this year than Ludwig van Beethoven? H&H's opening performance, Distinctly Beethoven, features three works by the virtuoso composer and pianist: his Coriolan Overture, Piano Concerto No. 3, and Symphony No. 7. (The latter hasn't been in the group's repertoire since 1865, so it's safe to assume that you've never had the opportunity to see them perform it.) Featuring renowned fortepianist Kristian Bezuidenhout and principal conductor Grant Llewellyn, the two performances take place at Symphony Hall (301 Mass Ave, Boston, 617.266.1492) on Friday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. For tickets, which are $15 to $67, call 617.266.3605 or visit www.handelandhaydn.org.
[Written by Heather Bouzan and Melissa Cronin]
