Alexej Gerassimez is a phenomenon: he makes metal vibrate, wood pulsate and skins breathe – always with that blend of virtuosity and inner calm that makes his playing so distinctive.
In Sir James MacMillan’s *Veni, Veni, Emmanuel*, the percussion becomes the radiant centre of the piece, the rhythmic heart that channels the orchestra’s energy in ever-changing directions. This work combines the orchestral sound tradition with percussive experimentation, presenting the audience with music that ranges from raw energy to profound contemplation, from dance to meditation, from a fireworks display of sound to spiritual tranquillity. With Dvořák’s famous ‘From the New World’ Symphony, the Dresden Philharmonic rounds off this spectacular concert evening, impressively reflecting the perspective of a European composer who discovered new soundscapes in America whilst carrying the familiar melodies of his homeland in his heart.
Dresden Philharmonic; Sir Donald Runnicles – conductor; Alexej Gerassimez – percussion
Felix Mendelssohn: The Hebrides. Overture, Op. 26; Sir James MacMillan: Veni, Veni, Emmanuel. Concerto for Percussion and Orchestra; Antonín Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 in E minor, Op. 95 ‘From the New World’ (Source: KTK Heinersdorff)
