Bartok's Concerto for Orchestra is probably his best-known work. Written in 1943 and one of his final works, all the hallmarks of Bartók's music are here - fierce rhythmic energy, vivid extremes of colour, folk themes interwoven with glorious melodies. It is a spectacle in every sense, and one that demands a virtuoso display from the entire orchestra - the musical equivalent of a peacock displaying its plumage. In this evening's concert it is performed alongside Bartók's lyrical Violin Concerto No.2, another late work and in essence an extended series of melodic variations. Philharmonia Orchestra website.| 23 Jun 11 | Southbank Centre West End, Greater London Performance Details => Venue archive |
