January 08, 2015

Christoph Eschenbach visits the Philadelphia Orchestra

Principal horn Jennifer Montone shares her excitement for the maestro's return.

By Aubrey Nagle
PhillyVoice Contributor

Eric Brissaud/Philadelphia Orchestra

Christoph Eschenbach returns to the Kimmel Center with Jennifer Montone.

This weekend, famous conductor and former music director of the Philadelphia Orchestra Christoph Eschenbach makes a special return to the Kimmel Center. Leading the Orchestra in Richard Strauss' "Till Eulenspiegel's Merry Pranks" and "Horn Concerto No. 1," as well as Robert Schumann's "Symphony No. 2," Eschenbach will direct three performances. Since the concerts feature approachable works and the direction of the legendary Eschenbach, the event is perfect for both orchestra fanatics and the newly initiated.

"Horn Concerto No. 1" also will feature Philadelphia Orchestra principal horn Jennifer Montone as a soloist. Montone told PhillyVoice.com that "Strauss's first horn concerto is a sweet, joyous, fun, exciting, vibrant, young, very accessible piece which makes it a lovely end to any celebration of this gorgeous composer."

Montone began playing the horn at 10 years old, eventually playing with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the St. Louis Symphony before winning her illustrious position with the Philadelphia Orchestra in 2006. Working with the Orchestra, Montone said, "is the greatest honor and privilege of my life."

Just like the Orchestra's fans, Montone is ready for Eschenbach's return, too.

"I love working with Maestro Eschenbach, and I'm so excited to get to collaborate with him as a soloist," she said.

Welcome back, maestro!