Boston Symphony Orchestra

In an all-star lineup, Lang Lang plays Beethoven, Andris Nelsons conducts the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Stravinsky breathes life into the puppets of Petrushka. This breathtakingly high-profile concert is part of a grand cycle of performances covering all the piano concertos written by arguably the most famous composer of all time. This is the second concert in this series, and it features Beethoven’s Second Piano Concerto (which is really his first) together with Stravinsky’s Petrushka. At first glance, this may seem an unusual programme choice. However, the two works provide an evening of wonderful contrasts. On the one hand, we can marvel at the classical elegance and pianistic excellence of Beethoven’s craftsmanship. On the other hand, we are drawn into the chaotic tumult of a fairground with ecstatic dancing, brass fanfares and wild rhythms.