Dmitri Shostakovich – Cello Concerto No. 1, James Biak, soloist
Sergei Prokofiev – Symphony No. 7
This concert explores the complex emotions and artistic resilience of two iconic 20th-century Russian composers, Dmitri Shostakovich and Sergei Prokofiev. Featuring Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No. 1, performed by the brilliant cellist James Baik, the program highlights the intense expressiveness and biting wit of a piece written during a time of political tension and personal introspection. Complementing this is Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 7, a poignant and reflective work that blends nostalgia with serene beauty, often interpreted as the composer’s farewell to his artistic legacy. Together, these masterpieces create a powerful evening celebrating the enduring spirit of human creativity amidst adversity.
