ConcertPulse
Anna Vinnitskaya Schostakowitsch 2. Klavierkonzert
Theater und Philharmonie Essen, Alfried Krupp Saal (Essen)
The Essen Philharmonic commemorates Dmitri Shostakovich's 50th death anniversary with four evenings this season. His works, often reflecting the somber Soviet reality, possess profound beauty. His second piano concerto, however, stands out as cheerful, brilliant, blissful, and spirited. Pianist Anna Vinnitskaya considers its second movement among the most beautiful music she knows. Equally stunning is Sergei Prokofiev's fifth symphony, composed in 1944, a "song to free and happy people." Elim Chan conducts the Mahler Chamber Orchestra, who, along with Vinnitskaya, prepare chamber music surprises. The concert has no intermission and includes a "Close-up" at 5:45 PM and a "Late Night" at 9 PM. A child-friendly introduction is also offered.