OVERTURE TO “THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO”

(Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: 1756 – 1791)

The concert program opens with 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 with his own arrangement for piano and orchestra of the "Rondo alla Turca," the finale of Mozart's Sonata K. 331. Its driving rhythm, virtuosic lightness and unmistakable Turkish color make it a piece the whole world knows and hums.

SYMPHONY NO. 5 IN C MINOR, OP. 67

(Ludwig van Beethoven: 1770 – 1827)

The crowning conclusion of the concert 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.