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Australian Chamber Orchestra

Richard Tognetti playing with the Australian Chamber Orchestra

JS Bach hovers over an enticing programme from Australia’s premiere ensemble, embracing Gubaidulina’s sinewy tribute, and Shostakovich’s riveting Chamber Symphony.

With a zany finale that takes no hostages Shostakovich’s shape-shifting double concerto is a work whose tongue-in-cheekery makes co-conspirators of Haydn, Beethoven, music hall, and jazz. It’s worlds away from the harrowing String Quartet No 8 he confessed to writing with tears streaming down his cheeks. Re-purposed as the Chamber Symphony Op 110a, it’s complimented by Gubaidulina’s own quartet arrangement that asks, 'what’s in a name?'

It's not just an anniversary year for Shostakovich. Renowned for boundary-busting collaborations and enterprising programming the ACO notches up its half century. ‘Fabulous alertness and taut ensemble… is there a better Chamber Orchestra in the world?’ asks The Guardian. They’re joined tonight by pianist Alexander Melnikov who ‘shows us why he is the go-to man for Shostakovich’ (Limelight Magazine).

The end time for this concert will be added here closer to the performance date

Produced by the Barbican

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