This concert highlights Ludwig van Beethoven in three overtures and a symphony. The overture form encapsulates the composer’s ability to distill musical statements to their utter essence. Coriolan was written to preface a tragic drama by Heinrich Joseph von Collin about a Roman general who chose to betray his people and then committed suicide, yet the overture exudes strength and heroism. Beethoven only completed one opera in his life, but Fidelio is distinguished for having four overtures (of which Leonore was the most popular) with the final two included in this concert. The “Pastoral” Symphony is a programmatic work depicting Nature and the countryside that goes beyond simple description, pondering philosophical implications and delving deep into the mysteries of our universe and the meaning of life.