Elgar's Cello Concerto

The Estonian National Orchestra, conducted by Olari Elts, presents two masterpieces of the Romantic era: Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E minor and Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9 "From the New World." Elgar’s concerto, a paragon of lyrical melancholy, is performed by the Hungarian cellist István Várdai on a historic Stradivari cello—once played by Jacqueline du Pré.

Dvořák’s symphony, composed in the United States, blends North American influences with Bohemian folk traditions and Slavic emotionality. Its rhythmic vitality and catchy melodies make it one of the most frequently performed orchestral works. The concert is complemented by an introductory lecture that delves into the musical and historical contexts. An evening that impressively showcases the diversity of Romantic orchestral literature.