Beethoven’s “Emperor” Concerto was not written with any particular ruler in mind, and Beethoven would not have honored an emperor with a dedication. The name “Emperor” was given to it by a publisher, simply because it sounded so regal. Pianist Emanuel Ax is known for his poetic temperament and unsurpassed virtuosity. The monumental Seventh Symphony, a triumph for Bruckner at the world premiere, is a cathedral of broad and sweeping melodies that will linger with the listener.
Concert Commentaries
Musical examples and insightful commentaries on this weekend's performance. Listen now!
Explore & Engage
Themes and programs that give you a deeper, more meaningful and more personally relevant connection to the music!
This weekend marks the beginning of our three-year Beethoven Project. Come an hour early for the Concert Prelude with David Sogg, PSO bassoon, and a team of audiology experts from UPMC discussing the impact of hearing loss and many other ailments Beethoven suffered from throughout his life. Don't miss the video address by Maestro Honeck from the Beethoven-Haus in Bonn in the lobby. Also, experience how Beethoven might have heard his own music at different stages of hearing loss through listening stations provided by the UPMC Center for Audiology and Hearing Aids.
Learn more about the Explore & Engage program
