Programme Guide

Beethoven's Triple Concerto was composed during one of the composer’s most exciting creative phases when he was finding his way towards his characteristic “heroic style”. A gloriously progressive work, but one which is not regularly performed, due to its unusual combination of soloists. Here, Beethoven’s Triple Concerto gives us the opportunity to make the acquaintance of two musicians from the ranks of the orchestra in the role of soloists: 1st concertmaster Daniel Stabrawa and 1st principal cellist Ludwig Quandt. Our third soloist is the young pianist Martin Helmchen, who made his debut with the Berliner Philharmoniker this evening.

Bruckner’s Sixth Symphony is far less performed than its neighbouring works. Herbert Blomstedt characterises the Symphony with loving respect: it is like a mountain, ”that offers wonderful views”.