István Várdai & Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra

A true season and concert opener, the festive performance of the Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra begins with a light and graceful introduction. One of the most renowned Hungarian composers of the 20th century possessed a unique talent and knowledge: he was able to shape the characteristics of various musical eras into timeless, distinctive, and widely beloved compositions. On the 120th anniversary of his birth, the Liszt Ferenc Chamber Orchestra pays tribute to Ferenc Farkas with one of his “small music” pieces. In a completely different style, the program continues with Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No. 1. The interplay of powerful, robust sonorities and agitated lyrical passages, along with the demanding virtuosity required, presents an exciting challenge for world-renowned cellist István Várdai and the expanded ensemble featuring winds and percussion. The masterpiece concluding the concert begins with one of the most recognizable melodies ever written – Mozart composed it in the opening bars. What follows is the endlessly enjoyable, jubilant spirit of Viennese Classicism, offering timeless delight for listeners of every generation.