BOLÉRO

(Maurice Ravel: 1875 – 1937)

The evening opens with Maurice Ravel’s “Boléro,” one of the key works of the program. Built upon a relentlessly repeating drum rhythm, the music grows from a hushed whisper into an increasingly powerful wave of sound. Instrument by instrument, the orchestral texture thickens until the piece reaches an overwhelming climax. Composed in 1928, “Boléro” became Ravel’s most famous work and remains one of the most recognizable masterpieces in the orchestral repertoire today.

OVERTURE TO “THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO”

(Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: 1756 – 1791)

Next is the overture to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s opera “The Marriage of Figaro,” K. 492. Brimming with energy, wit, and irresistible momentum, it ranks as one of the most brilliant and beloved overtures in music history.

AIR FROM ORCHESTRAL SUITE NO. 3 IN D MAJOR, BWV 1068

(Johann Sebastian Bach: 1685 – 1750)

A serene contrast follows with the “Air” from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D major, BWV 1068. The strings and basso continuo weave a song-like melody of remarkable clarity and expressive depth. With its floating, tranquil quality and timeless elegance, the “Air” remains one of Bach’s most famous and deeply moving works.

MOONLIGHT SONATA · FÜR ELISE

(Ludwig van Beethoven: 1770 – 1827)

Next on the program are two of Ludwig van Beethoven’s most celebrated works, the “Moonlight Sonata” and “Für Elise,” performed by Georgii Cherkin in special arrangements for piano and orchestra. The “Moonlight Sonata” continues to captivate listeners with its hauntingly mysterious opening, while “Für Elise” remains world-famous for its instantly recognizable melody. The true identity of Elise remains a mystery; one popular theory suggests the title arose from a misreading of Beethoven’s handwriting and was originally titled “Für Therese.”

OVERTURE TO “THE BARBER OF SEVILLE”

(Gioachino Rossini: 1792 – 1868)

Next up is the overture to Gioachino Rossini’s opera, “The Barber of Seville.” Renowned for its sparkling energy, signature crescendos, and effortless virtuosity, it remains one of the most popular and frequently performed overtures in the operatic repertoire.

RONDO ALLA TURCA, K. 331

(Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: 1756 – 1791)

Georgii Cherkin returns to the stage to perform his own arrangement of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Rondo alla Turca” (K. 331) for piano and orchestra. With its unmistakable rhythm, virtuosic lightness, and distinct Turkish flair, the piece remains one of Mozart’s most famous and beloved melodies.

SYMPHONY NO. 5 IN C MINOR, OP. 67

(Ludwig van Beethoven: 1770 – 1827)

The crowning conclusion of the evening is Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67. Its iconic opening motif is one of the most recognizable themes in music history, often described as “fate knocking at the door.” From these famous first notes, Beethoven drives the music through an intense dramatic journey toward a triumphant finale, bringing the concert to an unforgettable close.