Two pieces from Maurice Ravel's center the programe. On Piano Concerto in G major Ravel said: “My only wish … was to write a genuine concerto, that is, a brilliant work, clearly highlighting the soloist's virtuosity, without seeking to show profundity”. Influenced by the jazz he experienced during his short American tour, the piece brings out the concerto's playful and intricate character, echoing the spirit of Gershwin's rhythms and dreamy French impressionism. Le Tombeau de Couperin (The Grave of Couperin), a suite for solo piano transformed into an orchestral masterpiece was dedicated to friends of the composer who died fighting in World War I. A poignant remembrance, the piece draws structurally upon a Baroque dance suite. 

EPSG:4326

23 November 2024  Hamburg

Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

The programme blends classical with contemporary, embracing influences of jazz. Opening with Igor Stravinsky's Dumbarton Oaks, a neoclassical piece that was inspired by Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos and what became the composers final European composition.

21 November 2024  Vienna

Wiener Konzerthaus

The second collaboration with our Artistic Partner Yuja Wang, takes us through the heart of Europe. With her captivating stage presence, Yuja leads the MCO from the piano, creating a magical interplay bewteen all musicians on stage.

20 November 2024  Amsterdam

Het Concertgebouw

The second collaboration with our Artistic Partner Yuja Wang, takes us through the heart of Europe. With her captivating stage presence, Yuja leads the MCO from the piano, creating a magical interplay between all musicians on stage.

15 November 2024  Seville

Maestranza Theatre

The opening movement of Handel's Concerto Grosso op. 3 No. 2 bears a close relationship to Handel's Brockes Passion of 1716. Two dance movements, a minuet, and a gavotte complete the concerto. In the Largo, the oboe's expressive cantilena is gently accompanied by the broken-chord accompaniment of two concertante cellos.

21 January 2025  Luxembourg

Philharmonie Luxembourg

Janáček's Mládí adds contrast to the programme. Composed during a reflective period in Janáček’s life, this wind sextet is a recollection of his youth, infused with astute humor and a classical form. Written during a stay in his birthplace of Hukvaldy, Janáček uses fresh expressions and a quote from his earlier work, March of the Blue Boys, to evoke the spirit of his younger days. The addition of a bass clarinet to the traditional wind quintet lends the piece a unique, rich texture.

23 January 2025  Dortmund

Konzerthaus Dortmund

Often overshadowed by his more famous B-flat concerto (Piano Concerto No. 27), Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 18 leans towards the entertaining rather than the expressive, offering glimpses of the deeper poignance that would characterize his later works.

30 January 2025  Salzburg

Mozarteum University Salzburg

Often overshadowed by his more famous B-flat concerto (Piano Concerto No. 27), No. 18 leans towards the entertaining rather than the profoundly expressive, offering glimpses of the deeper poignance that would characterize Mozart's later works. Uchida’s interpretation brings out the concerto’s intricate elegance, highlighting its playful yet sophisticated nature.

José Maria Blumenschein

Events

Upcoming events

Jan 23, 2025

23 January 2025 Dortmund · Mahler Chamber Orchestra

Jan 30, 2025

30 January 2025 Salzburg · Mahler Chamber Orchestra

Mar 23, 2025

23 March 2025 Berkeley · Mahler Chamber Orchestra

Past events

Nov 23, 2024

23 November 2024 Hamburg · Mahler Chamber Orchestra

Nov 21, 2024

21 November 2024 Vienna · Mahler Chamber Orchestra

About

José Maria Blumenschein hasn't added a bio