Sounding europe I

Dedicated to Lithuania's Presidency of the Council of the EU

Performers: Kaunas city symphony orchestra Chief Conductor Constantine Orbelian (USA), Manager Algimantas Treikauskas

Soloist PEI-WEN CHEN (piano, USA)

Conductor ALEXANDER PALEY (USA-France-Lithuania)

Program: LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN – Piano Concerto No. 5 ("Emperor") FELIX MENDELSSOHN-BARTHOLDY – Symphony No. 1 in C minor, Op. 11

In the first half of 2027, as Lithuania holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the second time in history, the Kaunas Philharmonic is proud to contribute to this significant state event and become an integral part of the socio-cultural program of the Lithuanian Presidency. On this occasion, we present an exclusive concert series, "Sounding Europe," dedicated to commemorating this historic period and honoring one of the most prominent figures in European music history – Ludwig van Beethoven, on the 200th anniversary of his death. Using L. van Beethoven's music as a universal language, the concert series will invite reflection on the importance of the values of freedom, solidarity, human dignity, democracy, and unity for modern Europe, as well as the role of culture in strengthening intercultural dialogue, community, and European cultural identity.

The first concert of the series will feature L. van Beethoven's Fifth, "Emperor," concerto, which earned its title due to its grandeur and virtuosity. This work blends heroic impulse, lyrical emotionality, vigorous energy, and a joyful mood of triumph, uplifting the listener and creating a solemn musical atmosphere of a European celebration.

The project is funded by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Lithuania