January 4, 2012
The Boston Globe
John Harbison’s Sixth Symphony is a piece shaped by loss
By David Weininger
John Harbison’s program note for his Sixth Symphony begins with what seems like a boilerplate dedication: “Symphony No. 6 was commissioned by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, James Levine, Music Director. It is dedicated to James Levine in friendship and gratitude.”
Similar words have graced countless other scores, the expected thanks for material and artistic support. Yet Harbison quickly adds, “These two sentences are far from formalities.” ...
read full article