Sommernachtskonzert 2018 / Summer Night Concert 2018

Experience the enchanting "Sommernachtskonzert 2018 / Summer Night Concert 2018," a captivating live performance conducted by the renowned Valery Gergiev with the esteemed Vienna Philharmonic. This album, released on June 20, 2018, under Sony Classical, is a celebration of classical music's rich heritage, featuring a diverse selection of operatic and orchestral masterpieces.

The concert marks Valery Gergiev's third Summer Night Concert with the Vienna Philharmonic and his 150th appearance with the orchestra, highlighting his deep connection and mastery with this world-class ensemble. The album spans a delightful 13 tracks, each meticulously chosen to showcase the breadth and depth of classical repertoire, from overtures and intermezzos to arias and ballet music.

Highlights include the exhilarating "Guillaume Tell: Overture" by Gioachino Rossini, the dramatic "La forza del destino: Overture" by Giuseppe Verdi, and the iconic "Vissi d'arte, vissi d'amore" from Puccini's "Tosca," beautifully performed by Anna Netrebko. The album also features beloved ballet music from Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake" and Prokofiev's "Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 2," as well as popular operatic arias and intermezzos from works like "Cavalleria rusticana," "Aida," and "Manon Lescaut."

The concert, held al fresco, offers a splendid Italian evening atmosphere, making it a unique and memorable listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or new to the genre, "Sommernachtskonzert 2018 / Summer Night Concert 2018" promises an evening of musical delight, showcasing the finest performances by one of the world's most acclaimed conductors and orchestras.

Valery Gergiev is a renowned Russian conductor and opera company director, celebrated for his dynamic interpretations and significant contributions to the classical music world. Born in North Ossetia in 1953, Gergiev studied conducting at the Leningrad Conservatory and has since become one of the most respected figures in his field. He is currently the general director and artistic director of both the Mariinsky Theatre and the Bolshoi Theatre, as well as the artistic director of the White Nights Festival in St. Petersburg. Gergiev's tenure as chief conductor of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra and the Munich Philharmonic further solidified his international reputation. Known for his flair for high musical drama, Gergiev's performances are a testament to his deep musical insight and passionate conducting style. Despite recent controversies, his impact on the classical and opera genres remains undeniable.