Program

Robert Schumann: Symphony No. 3 in E flat major op. 97 (Rhenish Symphony)
Edward Elgar: Cello Concerto in E minor op. 85
Claude Debussy: La Mer

Symphony Orchestra of the UdK Berlin
Dorukhan Doruk, violoncello
Karl-Heinz Steffens, conductor

Robert Schumann composed his last symphony in connection with his move to Düsseldorf, where he served as music director from 1850 to 1854. For this reason, it is also called the "Rhenish." Despite anecdotal claims that he was inspired by a visit to Cologne Cathedral, Schumann did not intend the symphony to be understood programmatically. With five movements and a rather short, almost chamber music-like intermezzo in the third movement, this very excitingly orchestrated symphony hints at a future direction of formal experimentation. Edward Elgar's famous Cello Concerto in E minor, often considered the epitome of musical melancholy since Jacqueline du Pré's iconic interpretation, provides an intriguing contrast to the largely optimistic atmosphere of Schumann's symphony, as well as to the lavishly colorful splendor of Claude Debussy's La Mer, the Three Symphonic Sketches for Orchestra.

Free choice of seats. Reservations are not necessary. The foyer opens one hour before the event begins.