The combination of classical pianist Emanuel Ax and Mozart is apparently quite compelling for local audiences. After all, there are four performances scheduled at the LA Philharmonic this week. The concerts begin on Thursday, May 2nd for four consecutive nights at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
The program finds Ax performing Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 22 in E Flat, a piece the musician considers one of his all-time favorites. On the podium for the concerts is former LA Phil Music Director Esa-Pekka Salonen. These four concerts will mark the end of Salonen’s concerts this season with the LA Philharmonic.
Also on the program is Beethoven’s 1st Symphony. But what entices us most about this program is The only one, a world premiere from composer Louis Andriessen. The Dutch composer has readily acknowledged the influence Stravinsky has had on him. That makes the pairing of this composition with Salonen very compelling given the conductor’s passion for the Russian composer, as recently evidenced by the just-concluded series of concerts he lead here.
In 2016, the LA Philharmonic gave Andriessen’s Theatre of the World its world premiere. That work was recorded by the LA Phil.
Not much is known about The only one at press time. We do know that vocals are part of the work since Nora Fischer is part of the program. Just last year her debut album, HUSH, was released. That recording showcases both her vocals and her unique interpretations.
Once again the LA Philharmonic offers familiar works of the classic repertoire but also adds in something new to keep us excited.
For tickets go here.
Photo by Maurice Jerry Beznos