PRESS RELEASE Brno, 15. 11. 2022
Benjamin Yusupov, one of the most respected contemporary composers, is returning to Brno, where seven years ago he enjoyed great success as seasonal artist in residence. He will be taking part in three concerts here: one chamber concert in Besední dům and two large symphony concerts at Janáček Theatre. “To Europeans, his works sound exotic yet very familiar at the same time. They are inspired by Central Asian folk music, Jewish music and African nations. It is this carefully considered synthesis elevated to a convincing concept that makes him one of the most renowned world composers. This is also reflected in the fact that he writes compositions for stars such as Maxim Vengerov, Mischa Maisky, Vadim Repin and Reinhold Friedrich,” says Filharmonie Brno Programme Director, Vítězslav Mikeš.
Perhaps the most anticipated event is the world premiere of the Kreutzer Sonata (Homage to Leoš Janáček), which Yusupov wrote on a joint commission from Filharmonie Brno and the Leoš Janáček Foundation. “This co-operation – I hope – shall enrich the audience’s perception of Janáček’s music, played in novel combinations with pieces composed in honour of Janáček or inspired by his legacy. Renowned world composers will be asked to contribute, as well as Czech composers of different generations,” says Director of the Leoš Janáček Foundation, Ludmila Němcová.
Wednesday’s concert at Besední dům will feature Yusupov’s four chamber pieces, all in their Czech premiere. Because Yusupov is not just a composer, but also a conductor and pianist, the starring role will be taken by the piano, which will be taken on, as well as by the author, progressively by Brno Filharmonie Chief Conductor Dennis Russell Davies, his artistic and life partner Maki Namekawa, and Jan Vojtek with his Trio Bohémo.
The following two days at the theatre will feature, as well as the world premiere, also Yusupov’s concert for two clarinets and orchestra, Images of the Soul, with Brahms’ Symphony No. 4 in the second half.
Tickets are available at Filharmonie presales or online at the filharmonie-brno.cz website. As for our other concerts, students of the arts can take advantage of an 80% discount, ISIC card holders can enjoy a 50 % discount, and students who arrive half an hour before the start of the concert can purchase tickets for 50 CZK.
Media contact Kateřina Konečná, Head of PR and Marketing Filharmonie Brno
+420 775 426 040 katerina.konecna@filharmonie-brno.cz