Philharmonia Orchestra 65th Birthday Gala Concert

Ludwig van Beethoven: Violin Concerto
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Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No.3 (Eroica)

This very special event, conducted by the legendary Maestro Muti, features two of Beethoven's finest works. Beethoven opened the door on the 19th century with the composition of his Eroica Symphony and Violin Concerto, taking both genres to new realms. The Eroica, perhaps the composer's most provocative work, redefined the potential of musical expression with its unprecedented design and powerful emotional impact. With the Violin Concerto Beethoven transformed the genre from an idiomatic virtuoso showpiece to a massive work equal in scope and aspiration to that of the symphony. As stated by the musician Georges Enesco, 'This is a great symphony. The violin has a leading voice, but it is merely one of the many orchestral voices which make up the whole.'

Royal Festival Hall at 6pm - Pre-concert talk. Members of the Philharmonia Orchestra discuss the orchestra's 65-year history. Admission free.

Riccardo Muti conductor
Joshua Bell violin