La cinquième de Beethoven

The theme of destiny takes center stage in this concert program, beginning with the prelude to Tristan und Isolde. The legendary couple's all-encompassing love is fulfilled beyond death, culminating in a Liebestod that Wagner envisioned as the apex of unrestrained musical romanticism. Contrasting with this metaphysical idealism, the four iconic notes of the opening theme of Shostakovich's First Cello Concerto offer a satirical commentary on Soviet totalitarianism, elevating the obsessive nature of Russian music. Jean-Guihen Queyras, our Orchestra's artist-in-residence this season, brings to life the masterpiece's 1959 debut by Rostropovich.

Similarly, four notes form the famous "fate motif" that knocks on the door of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony. This idée fixe weaves through the entire work, culminating in an explosive finale that triumphs over the composer's deafness. This universal music was even etched into history—recorded by NASA on the golden record aboard the Voyager I spacecraft, which has been journeying through the universe since 1977.

Clemens Schuldt: Conductor
Jean-Guihen Queyras: Artist-in-Residence and Cello