Mullova and Macao Orchestra

22/5|Sunday|8pm     Macao Cultural Centre Grand Auditorium     Tickets: MOP 350, 300, 200, 100

Conductor: Lü Jia
Viktoria Mullova, Violin

Programme
D. Shostakovich:
Violin Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op. 77
Symphony No. 5 in D minor, Op. 47

Known as the great symphonist of the 20th century, Shostakovich wrote fifteen symphonies in his lifetime. His works show the influence of post-Romanticism and neo-classicalism, while also featuring an element of discordance and chromaticism of the 20th century. His music had a profound impact on music development in the former Soviet Union.

Shostakovich was denounced twice by Stalin during his reign. In response to the first denunciation, he composed theSymphony No. 5 as “A Soviet Artist’s Practical Creative Reply to Just Criticism”. This work, which is largely grave, sombre and sad, can be seen as the watershed in his music career. Violin Concerto No. 1 was written during his second denunciation, and its premiere was held eight years after completion. Shostakovich represented himself in the work with the “DSCH” motif; this work is also the largest orchestration among six concertos.  

Legendary Russian violist Viktoria Mullova has been invited to perform in this concert. Her austere appearance, in contrast with her burning passion for music, has earned her the title of “Ice Queen” of music. For her first cooperation with Macao Orchestra, Maestro Lü Jia has specially chosen the masterpieces from Dmitri Shostakovich. Don’t miss this rare chance to see this splendid collaboration.

Duration: approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, including one interval.