London Philharmonia honors Rachmaninov at the Megaron
The acclaimed London Philharmonia Orchestra, conducted by top maestro Vladimir Ashkenazy, is currently interpreting some of Sergei Rachmaninov’s favorite works at the Athens Concert Hall, in a three-day tribute to the Russian composer which started yesterday and will run to tomorrow. Yesterday’s introductory concert, where the orchestra was joined by highly regarded pianist Garrick Ohlsson, consisted of «The Rock,» Piano Concerto No. 3, and Symphony No. 2. Today’s program features the «Isle of the Dead,» the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, and Symphony No. 3, with pianist Vassilis Tsabropoulos. The tribute at the Megaron will end tomorrow with the «Bohemian Capriccio,» the Piano Concerto No. 2 and the «Symphonic Dances,» where the orchestra will be joined by pianist Dimitris Sgouros. Composer Sergei Rachmaninov (1873-1943) made genuine contributions to 20th century music during all the different phases of his work. The Russian composer was inspired by poetry, painting and the love for his homeland, but also by the numerous losses he faced in his life, both financial and emotional ones. One can detect feelings of anger, stress, tension and sadness in his work, as well as politeness, love and tenderness. The piano features prominently in his work, which is highly demanding, especially some of his concertos that are rarely interpreted for that reason. The Athens Concert Hall’s Rachmaninov cycle features works that are representative of all three of the composer’s main creative periods. Athens Concert Hall, 1 Kokkali & Vas. Sofias, tel 210.728.2333. Tickets are still available for today’s concert, at the concert hall’s box office and at www.megaron.gr.
