PARISIAN DREAMS

Paris, a pilgrimage destination for every artist, shines brightly in all of tonight’s works: for Igor Stravinsky, it served as a springboard to the world and provided the commission for The Firebird, a work steeped in mysticism. Manuel de Falla, after moving to Paris, eased his homesickness by recalling the velvety landscapes of Andalusia with his piano concerto; Nights in the Gardens of Spain is awash with aromas in the spirit of Impressionism. The Parisians received Georges Bizet’s Carmen with outrage, though today it is the most popular opera in the world. Yet it was Maurice Ravel who best captured the essence of Parisian life. His Piano Concerto in G major, which reflects the early stages of jazz, is an unparalleled celebration of orchestral colour.

The brilliant pianist Javier Perianes has performed this year at both Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House. He is making a highly anticipated return to Lahti after a break of almost ten years – as the soloist in two concertos!