Philzuid

Romanticism à la Russe. Philzuid honors the symphonic storytelling of the great Russian composers Rachmaninov and Prokofiev. Once again, Sergei Rachmaninoff spread his mighty wings and reached for the heavens. His swan song as a composer is a romantic seduction dance of the highest order. The Symphonic Dances from 1940-41 proved to be Rachmaninoff’s last creative farewell to the world. For forty minutes, he immerses his listeners in a breathtaking symphonic journey. Having fled Europe, Rachmaninoff lived permanently in the USA and became enamored with the fast-paced, modern life. In his three-part Symphonic Dances, his time-honored, opulent romanticism is given a streamlined performance. Compelling cinematic music that makes your ears and eyes perk up.

Russians love to warm their hearts with exciting fairy tales, romantic adventures, and fiery musical arguments. The quintessential romantic Sergei Rachmaninoff has always been a purveyor of the most beautiful musical stories. But there are others who share this talent. In addition to Rachmaninoff, Sergei Prokofiev also excels at compelling narratives.

Like Rachmaninoff, Prokofiev experienced a creative surge at the end of his life. One of his most impressive works is the lyrical cello masterpiece, the Sinfonia Concertante. Prokofiev surprised everyone with a grand mix of symphony and cello concerto. As is often the case, Prokofiev displays his love of dance, folk music, and outright romanticism. Prokofiev does not shy away from sprinkling unforgettable melodies and high drama throughout the work. The final version of the magnum opus was premiered after Prokofiev’s death by his friend, the cellist Mstislav Rostropovich.

The young, acclaimed cellist Ivan Karizna now joins us for a dream interpretation of the Sinfonia Concertante. A performance to look forward to, because famous colleagues such as Gidon Kremer and András Schiff have nothing but praise for the towering cello rock star Ivan Karizma. ‘One of the best cellists of his generation,’ according to Schiff.

Program

Prokofjev – Sinfonia Concertante for cello and orchestra
Rachmaninov – Symphonic Dances, Opus 45