Regarded as “the definition of virtuosity” (Observer UK), pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii makes his anticipated Chicago Symphony Orchestra debut with Rachmaninoff’s iconic Piano Concerto No. 2. Known for its sweeping melodies and emotional depth, this concerto has become a staple of the classical piano repertoire, influencing countless films and songs with its evocative themes. Tsujii’s extraordinary technique and expressive artistry bring a fresh and breathtaking interpretation to this beloved work.
Conductor Peter Oundjian also leads the CSO in a newly crafted suite based on renowned American composer Joan Tower’s Concerto for Orchestra, a dynamic showcase of orchestral virtuosity designed to highlight the individual brilliance of musicians while celebrating the collective power of the ensemble. Premiered in 1991 by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, the work exemplifies Tower’s signature style—rhythmically propulsive, harmonically rich, and boldly expressive.
The concert ends with Brahms’s First Symphony, which combines intellectual depth with emotional power. The work has long been celebrated for its rich orchestration, memorable melodies, and the soaring energy that builds to its triumphant conclusion.
