We rarely have the opportunity to experience the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra in Europe, and this programme is truly something special:
With Leonard Bernstein's Symphonic Dances from West Side Story and music from Sergei Prokofiev's famous ballet Romeo and Juliet, old master Myung-Whun Chung follows the musical trail of Shakespeare's tragic lovers twice. In addition, there is probably the best-known work by Bernstein's compatriot George Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue. This jazz-inspired composition for piano and orchestra is in the best of hands with Makoto Ozone. The Japanese pianist is a jazz pianist by training, but has also been moving with great ease in the classical world for many years. We can look forward to seeing what improvisational liberties he takes in Düsseldorf!
With the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, Makoto Ozone, piano, conducted by Myung-Whun Chung
Leonard Bernstein: Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, George Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue, Sergei Prokofiev: Romeo and Juliet op. 64 (excerpts) (Source: KTK Heinersdorff)