Beethoven

Concerto No. 1 in C major for Piano and Orchestra, op.15

Shostakovich

Symphony No.13 in B-flat minor, op.113 (Babi Yar)

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BBC National Orchestra of Wales

Ryan Bancroft conductor

Jonathan Biss  piano

James Platt  bass

BBC National Chorus of Wales 

From its boldly assertive opening phrase to whimsical and playful finale, Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1 is one of the most grand and daring work of its generation.

Often referred to by its nickname Babi Yar, Shostakovich’s theatrical, bitterly humorous and transcendent 13th Symphony sets the words of Yevtushenko, depicting the atrocities of Operation Barbarossa on the Jews in Russia. Silenced for over 20 years due to Khrushchev’s objections to its antisemitic undertones, this symphony saw a resurgence in popularity in the late 20th century – unsurprising given the ingenuity and nuance of Shostakovich’s music, from its sharp contrast, quick wit, and ambivalent tonal centre, combined with a subtle classicism and romantic yearning.