CONCERTS

Automation

Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, January 28, 2024 at 2:30 p.m.

California Theatre
San Jose, CA

Concert Length
Approx. 1 hr 55 min. with intermission

Artists

  • Vinay Parameswaran, Conductor
    Yves Dhar, Cello & Halldorophone
    A.G.N.E.S., AI Learning Algorithm & Hologram

    Symphony San Jose

Program

  • John Adams

    Short Ride in a Fast Machine

  • Paul Dukas

    The Sorcerer’s Apprentice

  • Adam Schoenberg

    Automation

  • Richard Strauss

    Also Sprach Zarathustra

About Performance

Technology is part of our daily lives, but this program reminds us of the awesome power we have unleashed. John Adams’ piece depicts a ride in a terrific sports car quickly regretted; Paul Dukas’ setting of the Goethe poem sees a young wizard meddling in things he doesn’t understand; Adam Schoenberg’s new work includes a battle between cello soloist and hologram; and Richard Strauss’ epic tone poem was featured in the original A.I. gone wrong movie, 2001: A Space Odyssey.

The title work, Automation, is a cinematic concerto that explores the conflicts and connections between man and machine. Watch and listen as cellist Yves Dhar and his holographic A.I. counterpart interact on stage with Symphony San Jose in a groundbreaking composition by Grammy-nominated, Emmy-winning composer Adam Schoenberg that features cello, halldorophone, electronics, orchestra, and projected visuals. Automation promises to be a visceral experience that will leave audiences talking about what it truly means to be human.

Where Have I Heard It Before?

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice was featured in Disney’s 1940 film Fantasia. Mickey Mouse starred in the title role.

The opening to Also Sprach Zarathustra was made famous in Stanley Kubrick’s movie 2001: A Space Odyssey. So much so that Elvis Presley began opening his concerts with the intro.

Program notes

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Panel Discussion

A panel discussion will be held prior to the event, featuring none other than the Grammy-nominated and Emmy-winning composer Adam Schoenberg, and the brilliant Computer Science Professor Kathryn Leonard, who collaborated with him on this awe-inspiring piece.

This engaging panel discussion will delve deep into the captivating realm where artificial intelligence and music intersect. Join us as these experts unravel the mysteries behind the creation of this remarkable composition, while shedding light on the cutting-edge advancements in A.I. that are revolutionizing the music industry.

Discover the fascinating process of how A.I. is introduced into musical composition, working in harmony with brilliant human composers like Adam Schoenberg. Gain insight into how algorithms and data-driven approaches are shaping the future of music, resulting in innovative and evocative compositions that captivate the minds and hearts of audiences.

This exclusive panel discussion is a rare opportunity to engage with the creative minds behind Automation, offering a deeper appreciation for the artistry and technical brilliance that will unfold during the concert.