Iván Fischer conducts Stravinsky's Firebird with the Concertgebouw Orchestra

Iván Fischer conducts Stravinsky

Iván Fischer is one of the favourite guest conductors of the Concertgebouw Orchestra, and Stravinsky is one of Fischer’s favourite composers. The nice thing about programming multiple works by Stravinsky is that it often gives listeners a chance to hear very different kinds of music. This utterly unique composer lived and worked in old Russia, France and modern-day America. And his musical style changed as often as he moved. His famous breakthrough work The Firebird is an archetypal Russian fairy ballet with bold colours and rhythms. The programme also features elegant neoclassical music Stravinsky wrote in Hollywood during the Second World War.

Weill’s Der Silbersee

Kurt Weill’s ‘winter fairy tale’ Der Silbersee is a special surprise. This cheerful opera is rarely performed, despite the infectious melodies in which Weill invariably excelled. The work was banned by the Nazis because of its socially critical message. Later performances were hindered by the high demands the score places on the singers and actors. It’s a great opportunity to dive in and enjoy a real musical gem!