New York Philharmonic and Joyce DiDonato, Barbican Hall

A sumptuous programme starring soprano superstar Joyce DiDonato and the superlative playing of the New York Philharmonic, this is a concert you won’t want to miss. With four pieces full of opulent orchestral colour, the pieces will transport you from the decadence of fin-de-siècle Vienna to the exotic Far East and beyond. 
Finnish musician Esa-Pekka Salonen is not only the acclaimed principal conductor of the Philharmonia Orchestra, but a talented composer too. With kaleidoscopic orchestral sonorities, driving rhythms reminiscent of John Adams and virtuoso instrumental writing, Salonen’s is one of the most exciting compositional voices today. This concert marks the UK premiere of Salonen's violin concerto Nyx, which opens proceedings.
Ravel’ s Shéhérazade is full of similarly alluring hues, transporting the listener to an oriental soundworld with settings of evocative poetry. Similarly delicate sonic shading appears in Ravel’s Valses Nobles et Sentimentales , a homage to Schubert which draws from a luxurious harmonic palette spiced with piquant dissonances. Strauss’s Rosenkavalier Suite is another sensuous delight, displaying the virtuosity of the New York Philharmonic with its extrovert writing.
Joyce DiDonato is in demand across the world, with her bright-toned voice and sparkling stage presence resulting in a reputation as one of today’s most gifted performers. Although each performance earns widespread critical admiration without fail, her sparkling voice and charismatic stage presence means that she is particularly well-suited to the Ravel. The New York Philharmonic are held in equally high esteem, with a signature sound which fits this repertoire like a glove. Don’t miss out on the chance to see this celebration of two American greats.