Beethoven Day films: animation & Salonen interview

Esa-Pekka Salonen talking to Philharmonia players

Since 2007, the Philharmonia Orchestra has been producing high-quality video content, with the aim of introducing audiences to the people behind the music, and contributing to a truly multi-dimensional concert experience. Enjoy our two latest films celebrating Beethoven’s 250th anniversary.

First, discover the story behind one of the most famous concerts of all time in our animated film. Then listen to Esa-Pekka Salonen, our Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor, talk about why he’s reconstructing Beethoven’s legendary 1808 concert.

An illustration of Beethoven at the piano
Video

Beethoven: 1808 Reconstructed (animated film)

Vienna, 22 December 1808. Franz and Katarina are on their way to hear a concert that the famous composer and pianist, Ludwig van Beethoven, is putting on at the Theater an der Wien. They are in for a night they will never forget.
Conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen sitting on stage, looking off camera
Video

Esa-Pekka Salonen on Beethoven’s famous 1808 concert in Vienna

“Everything was just a disaster. Most likely, people who survived it, when they walked out of there, they were completely confused and bewildered. There is something really attractive about the total excess of it.”

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Conductor interviews

Enjoyed our interview with Esa-Pekka Salonen? Head on over to our YouTube channel to hear more from the conductors with whom we work.

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Conductor interviews