Le deuxième concerto de Rachmaninov

A fascinating journey through 20th-century music awaits us in this concert, which begins with the haunting Tombeau de Nelligan by Quebec composer Jacques Hétu. Commissioned over 30 years ago by the Orchestre symphonique de Québec, this piece honors poet Émile Nelligan, a profoundly influential figure in Quebec literature. The mysterious and passionate style of the composition sets the stage perfectly for Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto. Infused with Russian and oriental themes, this cornerstone of concert repertoire demands breathtaking virtuosity—a formidable challenge even for the greatest pianists. It is here performed by French pianist Lise de la Salle, a frequent guest of the Orchestra, who has notably recorded a magnificent interpretation of this concerto.

Finally, Shostakovich’s Tenth Symphony boldly expresses the composer’s deep love for his homeland, Russia, despite severe criticism from Soviet authorities. Amid the tensions of the Cold War, the Kremlin denounced any stylistic innovation. Premiered just months after Stalin’s death, this spectacular symphony showcases extraordinary creativity and culminates in a triumphant finale, whose optimism likely reflects relief at the dictator’s passing.