RPO USA 2020 Tour: Atlanta, GA

An inspired work by contemporary orchestral and operatic composer Jonathon Dove opens the evening, which is followed by Rachmaninov’s fiery Piano Concerto No.2. A stunning work of Romantic colour and passion, the simple elegance of the adagio sostenuto contrasts with the dramatic tension of the final movement, culminating in a powerful and enthralling conclusion.

Closing the concert is Sibelius’ Symphony No.2, a piece that defined Sibelius’ impact on his home country of Finland’s musical voice and identity. Opening the symphony are short, fragmentary motifs that connect and develop until the glorious final theme reveals itself in the last movement, interpreted by many as an unequivocal call for independence.