Pettersson and Tchaikovsky

With its powerful opening, captivating melodies and explosive virtuosity, Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto has become one of the most iconic works in classical music. The soloist is Japanese pianist Mao Fujita, making his debut at Konserthuset Stockholm together with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra.

Chief Conductor Ryan Bancroft has previously worked with Mao Fujita:
“I truly appreciate his personal interpretation of the piece. He has gone back to the source – to the score – rather than relying on interpretative traditions and mannerisms.”

Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto is paired with a modern Swedish classic: Allan Pettersson’s Symphony No. 7. Pettersson composed from life itself – “the damned, the blessed,” as he put it.

The Seventh Symphony is as harrowing as it is beautiful, filled with both dark shadows and music of tender consolation. A few quietly repeated chords return throughout – at times ominous, at times like a caress. The symphony was premiered in 1968 by the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Antal Dorati, and has remained a recurring presence in the orchestra’s repertoire ever since.