A large-scale cycle of symphonic programs to commemorate the anniversary of the great composer, Ludwig van Beethoven, continues on the Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. Spectators will hear some of the most famous works of the German classic performed by the Mariinsky Orchestra of the Primorsky Stage under the baton of the Principal Conductor Pavel Smelkov.
A symphonic concert from the Beethoven – 250 cycle will take place on March 15 in the Great Hall. The program includes Symphony No. 2 in D major and Symphony No. 3 in E flat major (Eroica). The soloist of the Mariinsky Opera of the Primorsky Stage Liliya Kadnikova will perform the Ah! Perfido concert aria for soprano and orchestra conducted by maestro Pavel Smelkov.
The program of this concert introduces the public to symphonic works that open a new period not only in the life of Beethoven himself, but in the whole genre as well. The Viennese classic composer makes symphonies more amplitudinous, and increases the composition of the orchestra. He imparts not only philosophical, but also social and political ideas into music. It was at this time that Ludwig van Beethoven recognized of encroaching deafness. It also influenced the musical content.
Beethoven’s Second Symphony is dedicated to Karl Alois, Prince Lichnowsky, an Austrian philanthropist who is remembered for his patronage of music. The Symphony was premiered in the Theater an der Wien in Vienna in April 1803, and was conducted by the composer.
Beethoven originally dedicated the Third Symphony to Napoleon Bonaparte, for whom he had the highest esteem. However, the composer got disappointed in his political views and changed the dedication. The title Sinfonia eroica eventually became a symbol of the composer’s struggle against his incurable deafness.
