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Open Rehearsal: Kavakos conducts Dvořák, Schumann & Brahms

Royal Festival Hall
£7
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Kian Soltani holding a cello

Artists

Leonidas Kavakos – conductor
Kian Soltani – cello


Programme

Dvořák Vanda Overture

Schumann Cello Concerto

— Interval —

Brahms Symphony No. 1

This programme puts the relationship between musical mentors centre stage.

Schumann’s Cello Concerto is considered one of the great cello works of the Romantic era. The challenge for the soloist is to make sure this demanding music sounds lyrical and serene. That should be no problem at all for Kian Soltani, known for the joy he brings to every performance and his ability to create an immediate rapport with his audience.

Brahms’s magnificent First Symphony was many years in the making. And it may never have seen the light of day without the support and friendship of Robert Schumann and his wife Clara – an article by Robert Schumann launched Brahms’s composing career when the three first met, and they soon became devoted friends. The symphony is a 45-minute journey through all the poetry and power an orchestra can conjure.

As the starter for this Romantic feast, Leonidas Kavakos has chosen a rarity by Dvořák, whose early career was given a boost by Brahms’s advocacy. The overture to his opera Vanda is a suitably dramatic scene-setter for the story of a heroic Polish queen.

All you need to know

Price

£7

 

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Running time

Approximately 2.5 hrs (subject to change)

Recommended age

From 7+

Programme notes

Digital programme notes available closer to the rehearsal.

Contact the Friends team

Phone: 020 7921 3906
Email: friends@philharmonia.co.uk

Concerto and Symphony Friends

Concerto and Symphony Friends members can claim their complimentary open rehearsal tickets by emailing friends@philharmonia.co.uk.

About

Open rehearsals are not performances. Playing may be paused at various intervals in order for the conductor, soloist and orchestra to agree on specific styles and dynamics.

Open rehearsals will take place in the auditorium where the concert is due to be performed, unless otherwise specified. Times and repertoire being rehearsed will be confirmed prior to the rehearsal date, as these schedules are subject to change.

Please note that open rehearsals are working processes for the conductor and the Orchestra, we cannot guarantee that pieces will be played in their entirety. Timings are subject to change and every endeavour will be made to let ticket holders know in advance about any such changes. Please check our website for up-to-date information.

Venue

Royal Festival Hall

Royal Festival Hall

Southbank Centre
Belvedere Road
London
SE1 8XX

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2025/26 London Season

Our 80th birthday season at Royal Festival Hall.


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