Bernstein’s First Symphony is steeped in his religious upbringing. Growing from the seed of the final movement written years earlier as a young conducting student, Bernstein’s Jeremiah is rich with Jewish musical reference. Beyond the sobriquet, several thematic figures come from specific liturgical sources, giving this music a deep sense of spirituality alongside his naturally theatrical composition style. PROGRAM BERNSTEIN Symphony No.1 “Jeremiah” ARTISTS Bramwell Tovey, conductor Liane Keegan, contralto Melbourne Symphony Orchestra