Smetana’s spirited overture sets the scene for celebration, as one of WASO’s favourite guests, Alban Gerhardt, makes his much-anticipated return with Dvořák’s ever-popular Cello Concerto. Inspired by the composer’s homesick longings and a tragic love, this cornerstone of the repertoire demands the utmost emotional commitment and prowess from its soloist. 

With his Fourth Symphony, Tchaikovsky transformed his personal battle with fate into a potent and powerful work of art. Swirling between darkness and light, anguish and hope, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony ultimately triumphs to deliver a joyous finale of life-affirming energy.