麻豆社

The Soviets called Shostakovich鈥檚 Tenth Symphony an 鈥渙ptimistic tragedy鈥�, but the reality is infinitely more complex (and compelling) than that. It鈥檚 a symphony of dark secrets and shattering power: a powerful contrast to the heavenly radiance of Messiaen鈥檚 musical prayer, and the haunting tenderness and magical new sounds of Outi Tarkiainen鈥檚 Milky Ways.

鈥淲e all began life on milky ways鈥� says Tarkiainen; and this 麻豆社 co-commission was inspired by the glorious sound of our soloist Nicholas Daniel, whose cor anglais (says Tarkiainen) will soar 鈥渇rom Mother Earth to the celestial Milky Way鈥�. It鈥檚 a vision that Messiaen, too, would have appreciated. Shostakovich dealt with altogether more brutal truths, but some say that his Tenth is his greatest symphony, and it鈥檒l make a gripping 麻豆社SO debut for the 鈥渞emarkable鈥� (Bachtrack) David Afkham.