“What is our life but a series of preludes to that unknown hymn whose first solemn note is intoned by Death?” wrote Franz Liszt, inspired by a poem that gave rise to his symphonic poem Les Préludes. Lasting barely fifteen minutes, the work is nevertheless one of music’s most compelling reflections on the journey of human life.
When Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto was first performed, it baffled contemporary audiences. Today, however, it ranks among the most beloved masterpieces of the violin repertoire. This performance promises to be especially memorable with the young and exceptionally gifted Maria Sotriffer, who came to international prominence after winning the Ysaÿe International Music Competition, as soloist.
The great questions of life—fate, birth, and destiny—also lie at the heart of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, which expresses them in an irresistibly powerful symphonic language. The concert is conducted by Luigi Mazzocchi, joint second-prize winner of the Antal Doráti International Conducting Competition in 2025.
Photo: Luigi Mazzocchi © Dante Villa
Franz Liszt: Les Préludes, S. 97
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 35
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36
