Dreams

Shostakovich’s »Hamlet« suite develops an opulent, intermittently grotesque world of sound that oscillates between humour, pathos and pomp. Touches of cabaret and neoclassicist traits illuminate both the tragedy and the absurdity in Shakespeare’s drama.

Valentin Silvestrov’s single movement Symphony No. 7 (2003) fluctuates between outbreaks of violence, pensive and elegiac tension, influenced by the death of his wife.

Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 2 has a striking dramatic depth and an unusual second movement that lets the piano enter a dialogue with the orchestra on equal footing. All three composers share emotional extremes, contrasts and tensions as well as an innovative approach to form and sound.