Abduraimov debuts with cso

Behzod Abduraimov takes center stage with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for the first time, taking on the challenge of Tchaikovsky's first Piano Concerto! Also on the program is Shostakovich's tragicomedy inspired Ninth Symphony, with shades of circus music, as well as his orchestration of Mussorgsky's Khovanschina prelude. Rounding off a transformative performance is Ciel D'hiver, or Winter's Night, by Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho.

Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto no. 1 is one of most popular showpieces for the instrument, testing the mettle of even the most accomplished of pianists. Steeped in sublime romance, expansive themes and sweeping movements, the concerto opens with a thunderously triumphant series of instantly recognisable chords before soaring to soulful melodic heights. Shostakovich's Symphony No. 9, meanwhile was composed in 1945 to celebrate the Soviet victory in World War II. Defying expectations with its neoclassical style, light textures, and ironic undertones, it was initially criticized for not aligning with the expected triumphant tone but is now appreciated as a testament to Shostakovich's complex relationship with Soviet authorities.