Steven Isserlis Plays Shostakovich
Friends for over 20 years, their concert will hold a special place in this season. Shostakovich’s monumental first cello concerto sees Isserlis at his sublime best, while Haydn’s ‘London’ symphony – arguably the pinnacle of his compositional achievement – lies at the very heart of the ACO’s repertoire.
Adding to this special program are two world premieres – one by Australian composer Elena Kats-Chernin, whose colourful and expressive style makes a welcome return to the ACO, and a modern retelling of the concerto grosso by Samuel Adams, one of the most original compositional voices in the world today.
Reviews
“Isserlis swept through the work’s extreme technical challenges without casualty, and crafted a searing line of lyrical shrieks, frenzied escape attempts and ricocheting cries of pain.”
– The Australian
★★★★ ½ “Steven Isserlis avoided a hammered or bludgeoning approach, creating tension at the opening in taut insistent rhythms and imaginative exploration of sound.”
– Sydney Morning Herald
★★★★ ½ “Isserlis shaped [the concerto] superbly, exuding emotion and passion beyond measure.”
– Limelight
Program
SAMUEL ADAMS - Movements (for us and them) World Premiere*
SHOSTAKOVICH - Cello Concerto No.1 in E-flat major
ELENA KATS-CHERNIN - A Knock One Night World Premiere**
HAYDN - Symphony No.104 in D major ‘London’
* Commissioned by the Australian Chamber Orchestra and Stanford Live
** Commissioned by Mirek Generowicz to share the dramatic story of his family's journey to Australia.
Artists
Richard Tognetti - Director & Violin
Steven Isserlis - Cello
