“FROM STRUGGLE TO TRIUMPH” concert

Tran Manh Hung | Symphonic Poem Dien Bien Phu
A powerful and evocative work, Tran Manh Hung’s Symphonic Poem Dien Bien Phu is a symphonic portrayal of one of Vietnam’s most defining historical moments—the decisive battle of Điện Biên Phủ in 1954. This confrontation between the Vietnamese forces and the French colonial army marked a turning point in the First Indochina War and ultimately led to the end of French rule in Vietnam.

Through rich orchestration and dramatic themes, the piece captures the tension, struggle, and ultimate triumph of the Vietnamese forces. Hung masterfully blends traditional Vietnamese musical elements with modern orchestral textures, creating a compelling soundscape that resonates with both historical significance and emotional depth.

The work moves through contrasting sections that depict the intensity of battle, the perseverance of the Vietnamese soldiers, and ultimately, the victorious conclusion. Listeners will hear sweeping melodies that reflect the determination of the Vietnamese people, bold brass fanfares symbolizing the call to arms, and evocative percussion that mimics the chaos and energy of warfare. The slow, mournful passages convey the deep sacrifices made by those who fought, while triumphant climaxes celebrate the resilience and courage of the nation.

Hung’s use of traditional Vietnamese motifs gives the piece an authentic national character, blending seamlessly with the grandeur of the full symphony orchestra. By incorporating elements of folk music, pentatonic scales, and rhythmic patterns reminiscent of Vietnamese drumming, he crafts a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally powerful. Symphonic Poem Dien Bien Phu stands not only as a musical tribute to an important chapter in Vietnamese history but also as a testament to the enduring spirit of the people. This performance pays homage to that legacy, offering an emotional and thought-provoking journey through sound.

Sergei Prokofiev | Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Major, Op. 26
Performed by pianist Luong Khanh Nhi, Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3 stands as one of the most beloved concertos of the 20th century. Completed in 1921, this work is a brilliant showcase of Prokofiev’s unique compositional style—combining lyricism, wit, and dazzling virtuosity. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Prokofiev was equally adept at writing for both piano and orchestra, crafting a concerto that balances the two forces in a dynamic and engaging interplay. The work is structured in three movements, each offering a striking contrast in character: from the expressive and flowing melodies of the first, to the playful and rhythmically intricate second, and culminating in the exhilarating finale.

The first movement opens with a lush introduction from the orchestra before the piano enters with its signature flourish—an immediate declaration of the soloist’s technical prowess. The themes unfold with elegance, yet the music is never predictable, filled with unexpected twists and harmonic shifts.

The second movement consists of a theme and variations, each presenting a new perspective on the main melodic material. Some variations are light and whimsical, while others explore deeper emotional depths, requiring the pianist to demonstrate both finesse and intensity.

The third movement is a tour de force of rhythmic drive and virtuosic fireworks. It demands extraordinary technical agility, as the pianist navigates rapid runs, percussive chords, and dazzling octaves, all while maintaining a sense of drama and momentum. The orchestration is equally vibrant, with bold brass interjections, dynamic percussion, and sweeping string passages that add to the excitement. Prokofiev’s signature blend of sharp-edged modernism and lyrical beauty ensures that this piece is as captivating today as it was a century ago.

What makes his Piano Concerto No. 3 particularly compelling is its ability to balance sophistication with accessibility. While the work is technically demanding and filled with Prokofiev’s characteristic harmonic boldness, it remains deeply engaging for audiences, thanks to its memorable themes and exuberant energy. This performance by Luong Khanh Nhi and the SSO will highlight both the lyrical sensitivity and the dazzling virtuosity required to bring this masterpiece to life.

Dmitri Shostakovich | Symphony No. 9 in E-flat Major, Op. 70
Composed in 1945, Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9 is an enigmatic and unexpected work that defied expectations. Many had anticipated a grand, heroic symphony to celebrate the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II—a work that would follow in the tradition of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, filled with triumphant grandeur and nationalistic pride. Instead, Shostakovich delivered a piece that was lighthearted, satirical, and filled with humor. This choice confounded audiences and Soviet officials alike, as they were expecting a solemn, patriotic tribute to Stalin and the Soviet war effort.

The five-movement symphony features playful woodwind passages, energetic rhythms, and moments of subtle irony, showcasing the composer’s characteristic wit. The first movement opens with a buoyant and lively theme, brimming with dance-like energy. The quick, almost mischievous melodies suggest an irreverent attitude rather than a traditional victory march. The second movement takes a more introspective turn, featuring haunting clarinet solos and delicate string textures that create a sense of unease beneath the surface charm.

The third and fourth movements serve as a bridge to the finale, where humor and drama intertwine. The scherzo-like third movement is marked by rapid, almost chaotic orchestration, while the fourth movement introduces darker, more somber tones. The finale, however, takes an unexpected turn: rather than a grand, heroic conclusion, it bursts forth with a lively, almost cartoonish exuberance, filled with witty orchestral gestures and playful interplay between instruments. Some critics interpreted this as a subversive statement—Shostakovich thumbing his nose at the authorities who had expected a solemn and reverent work.

While some contemporaries found the symphony’s tone unexpected for a post-war victory celebration, modern audiences appreciate its sharp contrasts, inventive orchestration, and the subtle layers of meaning woven throughout. Beneath its humor, there is an undercurrent of defiance, a quiet critique of the oppressive regime under which Shostakovich lived. Today, the symphony is admired not only for its brilliance and originality but also for its ability to challenge expectations and provoke thought. Its compact form and striking emotional range make it a fascinating and thought-provoking conclusion to this evening’s program.

This concert, led by Olivier Ochanine, brings together a compelling mix of history, virtuosity, and musical innovation, offering the audience a rich and dynamic listening experience. Each piece on the program presents a unique perspective: from the powerful historical narrative of Symphonic Poem Dien Bien Phu, to the dazzling piano mastery of Prokofiev’s concerto, and finally to the thought-provoking wit and subtext of Shostakovich’s symphony. Together, these works create a concert experience that is both emotionally stirring and intellectually engaging, demonstrating the power of music to evoke deep connections and profound reflection. Whether through the evocative storytelling of Tran Manh Hung, the fiery virtuosity of Prokofiev, or the sharp irony of Shostakovich, this program celebrates the vast expressive possibilities of orchestral music.

“FROM STRUGGLE TO TRIUMPH” concert
Saturday, March 29th, 8:00pm
Ho Guom Opera
Ticketing: 500.000vnd | 800.000vnd | 1.000.000vnd | 2.000.000vnd
Free delivery: 0965 765 946 (Vietnamese speaking) – 0913 489 858 (English speaking)
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