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One of Europe’s most attractive amphitheater’s, Berlin’s Waldbühne (literally “forest stage”) can hold up to 20,000 spectators, making the the world’s largest concert hall. For the 2004 edition of their summer concert series, the Berliner Philharmoniker takes us on a whirlwind Tchaikovsky night, under the baton of Sir Simon Rattle, with pianist Lang Lang at his side.
The evening opens with the Russian composer’s brilliant and beloved First Piano Concerto, premiered in Boston in 1875. Rubinstein, who harshly criticized Tchaikovsky for the piece’s incredible difficulty, ultimately began one of its best interpreters. Superstar pianist Lang Lang takes on the challenge, performing the monumental concerto with his natural charisma. Next comes Act 2 from The Nutcracker, light and brilliant, with its succession of picturesque dances that give an enchanting quality to the second half of the evening.
Runtime: 1 hrs. & 37 mins.