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Vladimir Jurowski conductor
Alexander Toradze piano
Tchaikovsky Fantasy Overture, Romeo and Juliet
Prokofiev Piano Concerto 1
Prokofiev Excerpts from
Romeo and Juliet
Tempers were fraying backstage at the Kirov Theatre in Leningrad during the early days of 1940. Galina Ulanova was preparing to create the role of Juliet in Prokofiev’s new ballet, and found much of the composer’s music un-danceable. Not altogether surprising, perhaps. Because what Prokofiev created was unlike anything that had gone before it: a ballet score with symphonic principles and wholeness, music of unprecedented dramatic scope, clarity of emotion, clear-cut characterisation and technical invention. It’s little wonder Prokofiev’s score has achieved such iconic status – as much a vivid story in music as in dance.
Tchaikovsky’s
Romeo and Juliet focuses on the overwhelming romanticism of Shakespeare’s tragedy: for some people, this is the ultimate in romantic music.
Prokofiev's first piano concerto is a brief , bright and brilliant centrepiece to the programme. In three short 'movements' that are run together without breaks, there's melody and exceptionally showy, glittering writing for the soloist. It's a stunning piece that shows why Prokofiev's music for piano and to illustrate stories - in ballet, for instance - is so effective.
To hear selected movements from this concert, select a track below to open the music file. (Windows Media Player required.)
Tchaikovsky: Romeo and Juliet - Fantasy Overture after ShakespeareProkofiev: Piano Concerto 1 - Allegro brioso —Prokofiev: Piano Concerto 1 - Andante assai —Prokofiev: Piano Concerto 1 - Allegro scherzandoTICKETS: £9 - £55 BOOK NOW >You may also like: 
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Lisa Batiashvili performs Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No.1
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