Beethoven and Rachmaninoff

Rachmaninoff - Piano Concerto no. 2 (Phillip Shovk – Piano) ​Beethoven - Symphony No.3

Conductor: Steven Hillinger Concertmaster: Shuti Huang

​For Serge Rachmaninoff the Second Piano Concerto represented much more than a career breakthrough. The simple fact that he had managed to compose something so substantial, after years of creative paralysis, was significant in itself. The Piano Concerto No. 2 was an immediate popular success and remains among Rachmaninoff’s most frequently performed compositions. On the one hand, it’s a virtuoso showpiece: the composer himself, one of the most impressive pianists of this or any other age, gave the world premiere on November 9, 1901. On the other hand, the concerto is remarkably subtle and transparent, attuned to the intimate frequencies of chamber music: at several points, the piano melts into the orchestra, becoming mere accompaniment, another textural ingredient.

We are thrilled to be joined by Phillip Shovk as soloist. One of Australia's foremost pianists, Phillip has played as a soloist, chamber musician and accompanist all over the world, and been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and prizes, including at the Sydney International Piano Competition.

The wonderful 3rd Symphony is one of Beethoven’s best loved symphonies; marking as it does the transition from the classical to the romantic era. It has a scope and intensity that was striking (and indeed controversial) at its premiere and it retains a freshness and vitality to this day.

Note that this concert will take place in accordance with applicable COVID regulations in force at the time of the concert, which may include check-in, mask wearing and / or proof of vaccination.