When: November 18, 2023 7:30 pm
Where: West Road Concert Hall

TCHAIKOVSKY PIANO CONCERTO NO.1 | Cambridge University Orchestra

Saturday 18 November at 7.30pm
West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge

HECTOR BERLIOZ Le Carnaval Romain (overture), Op.9
FRANCIS POULENC Sinfonietta, FP 141
PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY Piano Concerto No.1, Op.23

CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY ORCHESTRA
JAC VAN STEEN conductor
AKIHITO OKUDA piano

Acclaimed conductor Jac van Steen returns to conduct the Cambridge University Orchestra in a dynamic programme.

Kicking off the performance is Le Carnaval Romain, an effervescent overture inspired by Berlioz’s own operatic misadventure, Benvenuto Cellini. A jubilant burst of orchestral colours, the overture commences with a spirited 14th-century Italian dance rhythm that swirls into a climax of euphoria.

Poulenc’s Sinfonietta is a tapestry of dance rhythms interwoven with the composer’s signature wit and charm. This orchestral gem promises an invigorating blend of movement and musical brilliance.

Akihito Okuda, a finalist and prize-winner of the 2019-20 Concerto Competition, takes to the stage to perform Tchaikovsky’s magisterial first Piano Concerto. The piece is a gem revered by both classical aficionados and pop culture audiences alike. The concerto begins with arresting chords, unfolding into a lively dialogue between piano and orchestra. While hailed as a tour de force of the piano repertoire, its melodies remain delightfully hummable.

Tickets:
£25, £18, £12 | Concessions: £22.50, £16, £10 | Cambridge University Students: £5

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