Under the direction of its new chief conductor, François-Xavier Roth, the SWR Symphony Orchestra presents two revolutionary composers side by side: Ludwig van Beethoven and Helmut Lachenmann. The first, a giant of Viennese Classical music, the second, a post-war sound pioneer. Both not only pushed musical boundaries with their works, but also consistently challenged their audiences' listening habits. Although Lachenmann, who turned 90 in November, strikes a completely different tone than Beethoven, he clearly places himself in the latter's tradition as a rebel and free spirit: "Beethoven was the first to consciously stop composing to please!"

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SWR Symphony Orchestra / Jean-François Heisser / François-Xavier Roth

Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

Court dance music, Schubert's "Great C Major," and eight voices accompanied by an orchestra – Francois-Xavier Roth and the SWR Symphony Orchestra invite you to a concert full of contrasts. Jean-Féry Rebel's baroque dance suite "Les éléments" meets Franz Schubert's Eighth Symphony and Luciano Berio's "Sinfonia." An evening between experiment and formal perfection, conducted by a master of extremes.

SWR Symphony Orchestra & Vocal Ensemble / François-Xavier Roth

François-Xavier Roth is unable to conduct this concert due to a shoulder injury. In his place, Maxime Pascal will conduct the concert with a modified programme. The concert will begin with excerpts from Boulez’ »Notations«. Boulez originally wrote the twelve miniatures for piano, which is why Pierre-Laurent Aimard, a true expert in modern music, will be the soloist for this concert.

SWR Symphony Orchestra

Dec 2, 2025

SWR Symphony Orchestra / Jean-François Heisser / François-Xavier Roth

Sep 23, 2025

SWR Symphony Orchestra & Vocal Ensemble / François-Xavier Roth

SWR Symphony Orchestra