Smetana’s The Bartered Bride Overture opens this program, followed by Ivan Karizna performing Dvořák’s Cello Concerto on his 1760 Tassini cello, ex Paul Tortelier. A prizewinner of the Queen Elisabeth and Tchaikovsky Competitions, Karizna was dubbed “one of the best cellists of his generation” by András Schiff. Rounding out the program is Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, described by Wagner as “the apotheosis of the dance”. Umberto Clerici conducts. Karizna joins forces with Aura Go at UKARIA on 31 May and Adelaide Symphony Orchestra on 5 & 6 June for Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No. 1. He also performs Robert Schumann’s Cello Concerto with Sydney Symphony Orchestra on 17–20 June and West Australian Symphony Orchestra on 26 & 27 June.

Limelight Editor’s Choice

Dvořák once doubted the cello’s power to lead an orchestra – until he composed a concerto that defied all expectations. Lyrical, radiant, and full of emotional depth, it is now widely regarded as the greatest ever piece written for the instrument. Cellist Ivan Karizna brings it to life with passion and precision, under the baton of Chief Conductor Umberto Clerici.

Beethoven’s Symphony No.7 follows: a work Wagner once called “the apotheosis of the dance”. With rhythm as its driving force, this iconic symphony moves from the majestic nobility of its first movement to a finale of exhilarating power.

To open, audiences will hear Smetana’s Bartered Bride Overture, a dizzying and virtuosic tour de force.