SPRING CONCERT PROGRAM NOTES: CHARLES-CAMILLE SAINT-SAËNS: VIOLIN CONCERTO NO. 3

Posted on May 8, 2022

CHARLES-CAMILLE SAINT-SAËNS:VIOLIN CONCERTO NO. 3

Charles-Camille Saint-Saëns, (born October 9, 1835, Paris, France—died December 16, 1921), was a French composer, organist, conductor and pianist of the Romantic era. Camille
Saint-Saëns was one of the most multifaceted romantic composers, well-known for his beautiful melodies and his remarkable musical prowess. He was outstanding from a young age; at the age of thirteen, Saint-Saëns was admitted to one of the most elite music academies, the Paris Conservatoire. His talent was recognized early on and he was offered many opportunities as a church organist and solo pianist. Franz Liszt, whom he met about this time and with whom he formed an enduring friendship, described him as the finest organist in the world. From 1861 to 1865 he was professor of piano at the Niedermeyer School, where his pupils included Gabriel Fauré and André Messager.

In 1880, Saint-Saëns began his journey with one of his most successful compositions, the Violin Concerto No. 3. This lyrical, yet bold piece was dedicated to the virtuoso, Pablo de Sarasate, who performed the premiere of one of the most renowned and important concertos today.The first movement begins with a striking melody reminiscent of a raging tempest, while the violin conveys a somber, yet nostalgic mood singing an expressive passage. The second movement is a strong contrast with the delicate and sweet theme alternating between the violinist and orchestra, creating a child-like innocence that captivates the audience. The final movement demonstrates a passionate determination. The powerful flourishes in the beginning are both alluring and emphatic.

At the age of 43, Saint-Saëns lost both of his sons, and later he separated from his wife. Over the following years, he undertook extensive tours throughout Europe, the United States, South America, the Middle East, and East Asia, performing his five piano concerti and other keyboard works and conducting his symphonic compositions.

From roughly 1880 until the end of his life, his immense production covered all fields of dramatic and instrumental music.
Katie Liu, 2022