NYO2: Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony

Cellist Alisa Weilerstein and Carnegie Hall's NYO2 take on a thrilling pairing of Dmitri Shostakovich and Sergei Prokofiev.

The outstanding young American instrumentalists of NYO2, led by Venezuelan conductor Rafael Payare, present a thrilling pairing of Shostakovich and Prokofiev.

American cellist Alisa Weilerstein - hailed by The Telegraph as truly a phenomenon’ - takes on Shostakovich’s fiendishly demanding First Cello Concerto. Written in 1959 for the composer’s friend, Mstislav Rostropovich, it brims with raw emotion, biting irony, and an undercurrent of hope.

Prokofiev's Fifth Symphony was written during the Second World War and pulses with militaristic energy. Its 1945 premiere was momentarily held up by artillery fire outside the concert hall, celebrating Russia’s advance into Nazi Germany. Despite its wartime origins, optimism prevails. I wanted to sing the praises of the free and happy human being,’ Prokofiev declared.

As part of their International Festival Residency, NYO2 brings together talented 14-17-year-old musicians from a wide range of backgrounds, offering fresh energy and new perspectives on orchestral music.

Supported by Dunard Fund

Rafael Payare Conductor Alisa Weilerstein Cello

Jimmy López Perú Negro Shostakovich Cello Concerto No.1 in E flat, Op.107 Prokofiev Symphony No.5 in B flat, Op.100