When the Russian National Orchestra bid its Newman Center audience “Do svindanija” after 2009’s appearance, the classical music fans had no idea when they’d get to hear another performance by a touring European orchestra.
Turns out they’ll only have to wait until Feb. 24, when the Russian National Orchestra returns to the Newman Center for a program that includes Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 and Beethoven’s “Emperor” Concerto for piano. Chinese pianist Yuja Wang will join the orchestra on Beethoven’s most famous piano concerto. Beethoven’s Coriolanus Overture rounds out the program.
“It’s very rare for Denver audiences to be able to hear international touring orchestras,” Seifert says. “The [Russian National Orchestra’s] appearance in the region’s best acoustic venue, Gates Concert Hall, is a unique opportunity not to be missed.”
The 100-member orchestra is led by Patrick Summers, music director of the Houston Grand Opera and a regular guest conductor of orchestras including the Metropolitan Opera, the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Wang won the piano competition at the Aspen Music Festival in 2002, and the Gilmore Young Artist Award for 2006. Wang’s command of the piano has been described as “astounding” and “superhuman.”
The Russian National Orchestra will perform at the Newman Center for Performing Arts at 7:30 p.m on Feb. 24. Tickets range from $28–$48. Parking is free. A free “Behind the Curtain” lecture will be held at 6:30 p.m. with Marc Shulgold, former classical music critic for the Rocky Mountain News. Tickets can be purchased through the Newman Center and TicketMaster. For more information, call 303-871-7720 or visitwww.newmancenterpresents.com.