Gustavo Dudamel Conductor
Piotr Anderszewski Piano

Brahms Piano Concerto No. 1
Shostakovich Symphony No. 5

On the face of it Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony is bursting with triumphant tunes, in accordance with the Soviet regime and the Politburo’s dictum that “all aspects of music should be subordinated to melody”. It was a sensational success, receiving a half-hour ovation at is première in 1937 yet the irony is all too apparent from Shostakovich’s derisive remark about the work:  "There is a feeling of rejoicing, but it is one of forced rejoicing. It is as if someone is hitting you over the head with an iron bar telling you 'Your business is rejoicing' over and over again. Eventually, you walk away muttering 'My business is rejoicing'."

Brahms’s First Piano Concerto received a far less enthusiastic response at its premiere causing Brahms to remark ‘the hissing was rather too much’, yet today this virtuoso’s showcase is recognised as one of the finest in the repertory.

Sponsored by Helen Jean Cope Trust

6.15pm FREE PRE-CONCERT TALK


“You know within seconds when an orchestra wants to make music with someone - and the Philharmonia made fiery music with Dudamel.” The Independent, February 2007