Rhapsody in Blue and Petrushka

Philzuid concludes the season with Stravinsky’s masterful Petrushka and a spectacular guest appearance by pianist Alexandre Tharaud in Gershwin’s swinging Rhapsody in Blue.

Stravivinsky’s Petrushka is a sparkling orchestral work that continues to amaze with its rich rhythm and melodic inventiveness. Stravinsky wrote the work for the famous Ballets Russes in 1911. After the success of The Firebird, impresario Sergei Diaghilev aimed for a quick follow-up. Stravinsky succeeded with flying colors. In his Petrushka, danceable rhythms and popular folk tunes tumble over each other at breakneck speed. The version of Petrushka loved by most music connoisseurs dates from 1947. In this extra-dynamic version, Stravinsky gives full scope to the piano and percussion. The ever-energetic chief conductor Duncan Ward and Philzuid know exactly how to handle this. In the United States, George Gershwin simultaneously caused a sensation with his Rhapsody in Blue. He wrote the work for the big band of jazz icon Paul Whiteman. In just five weeks, Gershwin had completed his signature work. The composer, only 25 years old, created a supermix of classical grandeur, swinging jazz, and sultry blues. French master pianist Alexandre Tharaud is a guest to give the enchanting crossover concerto new spirit with his insightful playing.