From 14-19 October, the renowned Brno Philharmonic steps onto the stage under the baton of American maestro Dennis Russell Davies, as he conducts a bold programme that blends Czech classical music with the spirit of American jazz and showcases the UK premiere of Philip Glass’ Mishima Concerto.
Leading British pianist Freddy Kempf will lead his first live UK performance of Brubeck’s Brandenburg Gate Revisited as the concert brings together different worlds: the folk-rooted traditions of Czech masters Janáček and Dvořák, with the jazz-infused brilliance of American icons Gershwin and Brubeck, to the contemporary minimalism of Philip Glass.
The audience can anticipate a fascinating mix of styles, performed with passion and great virtuosity by one of central Europe’s great orchestras. From Janáček’s folk-inspired Lachian Dances to Gershwin’s dazzling I Got Rhythm Variations, to Brubeck’s jazz-classical fusion in Brandenburg Gate Revisited, the warmth of Dvořák’s Symphony No. 6 and edge-of-the seat drama in his No. 7 Symphony, to the reimagining of Philip Glass’ acclaimed film score Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters.
Widely considered to be one of the most innovative and adventurous conductors in the classical music world, Dennis Russell Davies career reflects a rare ability to connect tradition with innovation, and his jazz credentials explain the fascinating presence in this concert of a major work by legendary jazz pianist Dave Brubeck.
Dennis Russell Davies, conductor, said: “This programme reflects the shared authenticity that the Filharmonie Brno and I bring to the music and the joy we share in performing together. Czech music is this orchestra’s ‘mother’s milk’, and with Brubeck and Glass we include music by composers with whom I’ve had a close relationship. Our soloists, Freddy Kempf and Maki Namekawa bring a wonderful vitality to their performances.”
Internationally acclaimed pianist Maki Namekawa has earned global recognition as one of today’s foremost interpreters of contemporary and modern repertoire. Renowned for her close collaboration with Philip Glass and her appearances with leading international orchestras, her work with the Brno Philharmonic highlights her versatility and reinforces her position as an artist whose performances resonate with audiences worldwide.
Conductor Dennis Russell Davies continues: “The Filharmonie Brno reads from my eyes, my breath, my gestures what my intentions are with the music, and the musicians rely on my ears. I speak very little at rehearsals, and I always feel free when I’m on stage with these musicians to be spontaneous if necessary.
“Being ‘on the road’ again with these great musicians and feeling the electricity in the halls when we meet each new audience is live music at its best.”
As part of the orchestra’s milestone 70th season, the programme underscores Brno Philharmonic’s commitment to bold, adventurous programming as it performs an expansive repertoire from grand classical symphonies to contemporary work.
