Chuck's take on All About Mozart

Pam Hahn & Chuck Stewart

The March 22, 2026 concert, "All About Mozart," will give everyone their fix of Mozart, with no distractions from other composers. I asked Chuck about his program choices for this concert and got some interesting answers.

Q:  What made you create a program of all Mozart compositions? Is he a favorite of yours?

A:  Mozart is definitely a favorite composer of mine. His mastery of the classical styles while being able to push the boundaries of form and show his personality make him so enjoyable to perform and listen to alike! Also, I knew we were going to perform the Mozart Clarinet Concerto with our Principal Clarinetist, Nancy Smith, so it seemed like a perfect opportunity to have an entire concert celebrating the greatness of Mozart.

Q:  What are the challenges of performing his works?

A:  Mozart has a great way of using each instrument in a soloistic context, while also being able to use the full force of the orchestra. This allows for a great juxtaposition and shows off Mozart’s masterful ability to compose both chamber music and large ensemble music.

Q:  Which piece on this program is your favorite?

A:  I think I’m most excited about performing the Magic Flute Overture. This was the first piece I conducted in graduate school, so I’m excited to tackle it again. 

Q:  If you could meet Wolfgang for a beer, what would you ask him about?

A:  I can’t think of any specific questions for him, but I would thank him for pushing the development of classical music as far as he did in his short life.