Expo (Magnus Lindberg)

"EXPO" redirects here. For other uses, see Expo.

EXPO is an orchestral composition by the Finnish composer Magnus Lindberg. It was the first work commissioned by the New York Philharmonic under the conductor Alan Gilbert, and was Lindberg's first commission as the orchestra's composer-in-residence. The piece was first performed on September 16, 2009, at Avery Fisher Hall, New York City, during Alan Gilbert's inaugural concert with the New York Philharmonic. EXPO was the first newly commissioned work to open the New York Philharmonic's concert season since the premiere of Aaron Copland's Connotations under Leonard Bernstein on September 23, 1962.

Composition

EXPO is characterized by Magnus Lindberg's distinctive style, blending intricate textures with moments of clarity and dynamic contrast. The single-movement work, approximately 10 minutes in length, was described by Anthony Tommasini of The New York Times as “an urgent, inventive 10-minute piece,” noting that it “alternates between complex and elusive passages and celebratory elements.”

The orchestration showcases Lindberg's skill in exploring the timbral possibilities of the orchestra, employing techniques such as layered textures, glissandi, and harmonics. Critics have drawn comparisons to the works of Finnish composers Jean Sibelius and Einojuhani Rautavaara. Jeff Dunn of the San Francisco Classical Voice commented on the “alternating string whooshes and brass chorales,” likening them to Lindberg’s Finnish contemporaries. David Patrick Stearns of The Philadelphia Inquirer noted that some passages in the brass writing evoke Benjamin Britten's Peter Grimes, describing them as “near-quotations.”

The thematic material introduced early in the piece recurs in varied forms, creating structural cohesion and culminating in a climactic conclusion that fully utilizes the orchestra’s power. The composition balances rhythmic drive with reflective moments, making it both challenging and accessible for audiences. Tommasini remarked that the piece was well-suited for its premiere as it “did not warrant a gnarly, intimidating modern piece” but instead struck a balance between complexity and celebration.

The premiere of EXPO on September 16, 2009, marked Lindberg’s first work as composer-in-residence for the New York Philharmonic under Alan Gilbert. It was also the first newly commissioned work to open the orchestra’s concert season since Aaron Copland's Connotations premiered under Leonard Bernstein in 1962.

Instrumentation

The work is scored for a large orchestra comprising two flutes, piccolo, two oboes, cor anglais, two clarinets, bass clarinet, two bassoons, contrabassoon, four horns, three trumpets, three trombones, tuba, timpani, two percussionists, harp, and strings.

Reception

Reviewing the world premiere, Anthony Tommasini of The New York Times called it "an urgent, inventive 10-minute piece" and wrote, "as Mr. Lindberg, a pragmatic composer, surely realized, this occasion did not warrant a gnarly, intimidating modern piece. Not that 'EXPO' was some easygoing crowd pleaser. It is an intense, complex and elusive piece, yet somehow celebratory." Jeff Dunn of the San Francisco Classical Voice called it "a terrific curtain raiser, 10 minutes of alternating string whooshes (reminiscent of Lindberg's Finnish countrymen Sibelius and Rautavaara) and brass chorales." David Patrick Stearns of The Philadelphia Inquirer similarly observed, "Part fanfare, part concerto for orchestra, Expo is an aerobic workout for all sections of the orchestra and [...] an exhilarating showcase. Though far from Lindberg's best work, Expo is a fine curtain-raiser."