Alexander Melnikov (photo MolinaVisuals)

Shostakovich vs. Bach

Australian Chamber Orchestra + Alexander Melnikov
Tue 11 Mar 2025 20:15 - 22:10
Tue 11 Mar 2025
20:15 - 22:10
  • Tue 11 Mar 2025
    20:15 - 22:10
    Interval 21:00
    Grote Zaal

Program

Johann Sebastian Bach Ricercar from Musikalisches Opfer (arr. Richard Tognetti)
Sofia Gubaidoelina Reflections on the Theme B-A-C-H
Johann Sebastian Bach Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 BWV 1048
Dmitri Shostakovich Pianoconcerto No. 1
Dmitri Shostakovich Parts from Preludues and Fugues Op 87, interwoven with parts from Das wohltemperierte Klavier (arr. for strings)
Johann Sebastian Bach Concerto for violin and oboe BWV 1060R
Dmitri Shostakovich Kammersinfonie Op. 110a 

Credits

Australian Chamber Orchestra
Alexander Melnikov piano
Richard Tognetti violin, direction
Ivan Podyomov oboe
Jeroen Berwaerts trumpet 

Exuberance and contemplation

No pianist embodies the spirit of Shostakovich quite like his compatriot, Alexander Melnikov. He is a much-loved performer at the Muziekgebouw, where he once dazzled audiences with his performance of Shostakovich’s complete Preludes and fugues. The Guardian called his interpretation of the dramatic and witty First Piano Concerto ‘tremendous’ and awarded it a full five stars. It is also on today’s programme.

Two extremes: Shostakovich and Bach. Troubled, nervous, propelled music versus balance, contemplation and serenity. Opposites meet. Melnikov and the Australian Chamber Orchestra are up to the task. ‘If there’s a better chamber orchestra in the world today, I’ve not heard it,’ wrote the Guardian about the orchestra.