Beethoven's Fifth, Shostakovich & Magrané

About the Event

The most popular symphony in history, Beethoven’s Fifth, offers new surprises with every hearing. If we add to this programme the virtuoso playing of Alisa Weilerstein, and the work which won the last Queen Sofia Prize, by the young composer Joan Magrané from Reus, there are even more pleasant surprises in store for us.

Although we can all sing the first four notes of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony, listening to it in its entirety is an experience that is not to be missed. On the day it was premiered (along with the Sixth) no one could have imagined that it would become the most popular and surprising symphony in history; it never sounds the same and it never fails to amaze us.

It is 50 years since the premiere of the Second Cello Concerto by Shostakovich (dedicated to the legendary Rostropovich), and it remains one of the favourite works of both performers and audiences, who appreciate the balance between beauty, virtuosity and modernity.

Joan Magrané is one of Spain's most important young composers, having won awards in several competitions. He is currently based in Paris.