PIANO CONCERTO NO. 2 en do m. Op.18
Rachmaninov, Sergei - Arr. Iain Farrington

1. Moderato
2. Adagio sostenuto
3. Allegro scherzando
 
SYMPHONIC DANCES, Op 45
Rachmaninov, Sergei – Arr. Iain Farrington

1. Non Allegro
2. Andante con moto
3. Lento assai- Allegro vivace

The Ensemble of the Atlantic Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Isabel Costes, and with the participation of the renowned Mexican pianist Alain Del Real, presents the program "Russia vs Beverly Hills". With this suggestive title, the contrast between the two fundamental stages in the life and creation of Sergei Rachmaninov is highlighted: his native Russia, where he forged his unmistakable melodic and harmonic language, and his exile in the United States, where nostalgia and virtuosity defined his last production.

This dialogue between two worlds is reflected in the selected works. The Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18, one of his most emblematic scores, condenses the essence of late Romanticism, with its overflowing expressiveness and passionate lyricism. On the other hand, the Symphonic Dances, Op. 45, the composer's last orchestral work, represent a masterful synthesis of his style, where rhythmic brilliance and harmonic richness coexist with references to his own music and to the Russian liturgical tradition.

Performed in a chamber format, these pieces acquire a more intimate dimension without losing their expressive intensity, allowing us to discover new nuances in Rachmaninov's writing. The event will feature the participation of the pianist Alain Del Real as soloist and is part of the innovative series Symphonies in Miniature, which since 2015 has offered a re-reading of the great symphonic repertoire in reduced formats, bringing these masterpieces to new audiences.

The programme includes two iconic Rachmaninov compositions, adapted by British composer Iain Farrington, who manages to maintain the symphonic richness of the original pieces with a more up-close and personal perspective.

The Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18, composed in 1901, is one of the most beloved works in the classical repertoire. From its solemn opening chords, the audience is transported into a soundscape filled with dramatic contrasts, glorious melodies and dazzling virtuosity. The contemplative moments of the second movement give way to a vibrant and triumphant finale, where piano and orchestra intertwine in an exciting dance.

For their part, the Symphonic Dances, Op. 45, Rachmaninov’s last orchestral work, composed in 1940, explore a musical universe that combines vibrant rhythms, nostalgic themes and profound symbolism. Throughout the three movements, the composer quotes his own works and introduces references to the "Dies Irae", a recurring motif in his music, culminating in a finale full of energy and technical brilliance.