On this week's Arts Scene, a trip to the Islamic Golden Age, with a quick detour to 19th century Russia.
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's "Scheherazade" has become a staple of orchestral repertoires since its debut in 1888. Now, world-renowned conductor JoAnn Falletta brings her interpretation of the piece to kick off the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra's 2019-2020 season.
Falletta has led the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra for over 20 years, making her the first woman to lead a major american orchestra. Her work as a trailblazing conductor has earned her numerous accolades, including a Grammy and Performance Today's 2019 Woman of the Year.
Falletta spoke with Arts Scene about her love of Rimsky's work, as well as modern composers like Jennifer Higdon, whose "Concerto 4-3" will be played by the Time For Three trio following "Scheherazade."
Falletta also spoke about her roots as a classical guitarist, and some of the unexpected sides of conducting the audience might not necessarily see.
