The Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra under its Chief Conductor Petr Popelka – who holds the same position also with the Vienna Symphony — and the Slovak Philharmonic Choir present an evening full of contrasts: the gentle lyricism of Franz Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony, and the dramatic power of Stravinsky’s Oedipus Rex.
The rarely-performed oratorio Oedipus Rex is based on Sophocles’ story of King Oedipus and his inevitable downfall. Its monumental form and Latin text create a dramatic and timeless musical world that draws listeners into the story and its emotions. In the work, Stravinsky asks whether fate can be evaded – and reminds us that the order of the world, as well as that of the nature, is uncompromising. Top tenor Paul Appleby will perform the title role, sharing stage with Czech singers headed by Ester Pavlů and Jiří Brückler. Together with Petr Popelka they promise a strong artistic experience, although the program is likely to be more demanding for the listener.
programme
Franz Schubert
Symphony no. 8 in B minor “Unfinished”, D 759
Igor Stravinsky
Oedipus Rex
Performers
Paul Appleby – Oedipus, tenor
Ester Pavlů – Locust, mezzo-soprano
Jiri Bruckler – Creon and Messenger, baritone
Pavel Švingr – Teiresias, bass
Daniel Matoušek – Shepherd, tenor
Igor Bareš – narrator
Slovak Philharmonic Choir
Czech Radio Symphony Orchestra
Petr Popelka – conductor
