The Iceland Symphony Orchestra's new artist in residence, pianist Bertrand Chamayou, and soprano and conductor Barbara Hannigan, will be the focus of this diverse concert that undeniably has a strong French air. Chamayou will play two compositions by his compatriots from France that both possess unique nuances. The songs of exotic birds from America and Asia inspired Olivier Messiaen to compose a colourful work for piano, wind instruments, and percussion, while Ravel's primary concern was to write a light and enjoyable piano concerto in which the soloist could shine. The composer drew inspiration from the folk music of his ancestors in the Basque Country and conjures up lively motifs and one of the most beautiful slow movements in piano literature. Arthur Rimbaud's poems were the inspiration for Benjamin Britten's composition, Les Illuminations. They tell us that the big city is at least as wild as the jungle! Waves breaking on the shore, lively parades, and magical lights illuminating dancing lovers in the evening twilight. Barbara Hannigan and the Iceland Symphony Orchestra's string ensemble perform this powerful masterpiece.
The concert begins with scenes from the ballet The Spider's Feast by Albert Roussel, where we learn about the seductive power of the spider, the hardworking ants, and the life cycle of the Mayfly.
  

Program
Albert Roussel La Festine De L’araignee Op. 17
Olivier Messiaen Oiseaux exotiques
Benjamin Britten Les Illuminations, Op. 18
Maurice Ravel Piano Concerto in G Major

Soprano and conductor
Barbara Hannigan

Piano
Bertrand Chamayou