A rarely heard suite, a classical concerto, a tribute to Bach and the capstone of a symphonic oeuvre. This is what this sometimes fiery concert flowing with the air of Northern Europe and conducted by regular BFO guest conductor Robin Ticciati has to offer. Bookending the programme are two works by Sibelius: the Nocturne movement from the composer’s first incidental music for the stage and his Seventh Symphony, the culmination of his life’s work. Between the two, we will hear a chorale parody by the contemporary Finnish composer Magnus Lindberg and Beethoven’s final piano concerto, which he wrote so that he could perform it himself. Serving as the soloist in the latter will be the Swiss pianist Francesco Piemontesi, who “combines stunning technique with an intellectual capacity that few can match.”

Presented by: Budapest Festival Orchestra