Kernis’s Symphony No. 3 Premieres With Seattle Symphony
“The world premier performance of the Symphony No. 3, “Symphony of Meditations,” by Aaron Jay Kernis was an exciting event. This symphony is written in three movements that create their own liturgical flow, as though they had always been part of a temple cantor’s repertory. At times, the fortissimo of the orchestra and chorus were bursting with so much life, the walls of Benaroya seemed unable to contain the sound. And then, as in the second movement, it settles down to a calm but passionate intimacy.”
Seattle Times
“Kernis has constructed a major new symphony that gives notice to everyone that the form is not dead. The musical language is lyrical and at times soaring, reaching toward something holy. Other times there is fragility. Throughout there is never any doubt that the “Symphony of Meditations” is nothing less than a serious and worthy composition. Kernis has written a winning piece with an easy to understand message that deserves to be played again. For Kernis, he joins a select group of living composers who have found a way to successfully write symphonies that are exciting but not old-fashioned.”
Gathering Note
“Kernis’ Symphony of Meditations, is a complex, ambitious and, overall, brilliant undertaking…there is much to praise about this multi-textured, profoundly spiritual composition. Yes, the text is extraordinary and inspiring.”
The Examine