| Beethoven, Ludwig van (1770-1827) | Piano Concerto no. 5 in E flat major "Emperor", Op.73 | |
| Shostakovich, Dmitri (1906-1975) | Symphony no. 13 in B flat minor, "Babi Yar", Op.113 |
| Gianandrea Noseda | Conductor |
| Simon Trpčeski | Piano |
| Vitalij Kowaljow | Bass |
| London Symphony Chorus | |
| London Philharmonic Choir | |
| London Symphony Orchestra |
Shostakovich’s ‘Babi Yar’ symphony is a testament to human suffering and survival; Beethoven’s ‘Emperor’ Concerto salutes the human spirit. Gianandrea Noseda and Simon Trpčeski perform them tonight.
‘No monument stands over Babi Yar / A drop sheer as a coarse gravestone / I am afraid …’ Shostakovich speaks unsparing truth to power, in a symphony inspired by one of the darkest episodes in modern history. This is music that burns with rage and aches with sorrow: the strongest possible counterpoint to the grandeur and glory of Beethoven’s majestic ‘Emperor’ Concerto.
Gianandrea Noseda directs the London Symphony Chorus as well as the Ukrainian bass Alexander Vinogradov – praised by critics for his ‘gravity and pathos’. First, though, he joins Macedonian pianist Simon Trpčeski for Beethoven at his most affirmative: and if you’ve never heard Trpčeski play the piano, believe us – you’re in for the ride of your life.
Tickets: £65 £49 £35 £24 £18