About this concert
The conductor Constantinos Carydis’s Concertgebouworkest debut promises to be a very memorable one indeed. The programme features sun-drenched works from France, Italy and Greece. Such an appealing Mediterranean programme offers something for everyone. The Greek conductor is in his element, and anyone who has missed the southern sun lately is sure to enjoy the programme.
Among the most colourful pieces in the orchestral repertoire, Respighi’s Roman paintings in music are a great pleasure for audiences and orchestras alike. The influence of Richard Strauss on Respighi’s music can be heard and even seen: we’re bombarded by visual stimuli as we listen. Joseph Canteloube’s Chants d’Auvergne are equally atmospheric and have a nostalgic undertone. The composer hailed from this part of rural France, having collected a wealth of authentic folk songs which he glowingly arranged for orchestra – the perfect atmosphere in which the British soprano Louise Alder shines.
Maestro Caryidis is also introducing Four Images by his fascinating compatriot Nikos Skalkottas. It is a playful, neoclassical work which was originally composed for a ballet about the Greek wine harvest.
Such an appealing Mediterranean programme offers something for everyone.