Sala: Symphony Hall, Boston

Late-career works by Lyadov, Bartók and Rachmaninov dominated the program, which featured Inon Barnatan as piano soloist.

Herbert Blomstedt returns to Symphony Hall to answer the question Schubert reportedly asked himself in his teens, “Who can do anything after Beethoven?”

The composer's magnum opus, unjustly neglected in English-speaking countries, receives magnificent treatment from Andris Nelsons and the Boston Symphony Orchestra, anchored by David Butt Philip and Christine Goerke.

Nelsons stresses refined dynamics, rhythmic drive, balance and contrast as he closes the Beethoven Festival in style. 

Andris Nelsons launches a Beethoven cycle with riveting performances of the first two symphonies. 

The Boston Symphony's final concert of 2024 is marked by appearance of the two conducting fellows from this summer’s Tanglewood Music Center, Ross Jamie Collins and Na’zir McFadden. 

Pappano leads a masterful program of protean compositions by Hannah Kendall, Strauss and Liszt, joined by Jean-Yves Thibaudet. 

A well thought-out, fearless, affirmation of hope which drew its listeners ever upwards into the realm of ecstasy.