Australian Chamber Orchestra: ACO Up Close: Shostakovich, Silvestrov & Bach

A deep exploration of the majesty and heartache of Shostakovich and Silvestrov chamber works, set alongside the music of J.S. Bach.

ACO Principal Violin Satu Vänskä leads an ACO ensemble with pianist Konstantin Shamray in this moving exploration through music of majesty, heartache, and reflection.

Arvo Pärt called the Ukrainian composer Valentin Silvestrov ‘one of the greatest composers of our time.’ Filled with longing and quiet contemplation, Silvestrov’s music embraces a simplicity that is at once comforting and unexpected. In a world that runs at an ever-increasing pace, it serves as a soothing antidote for our times.

The concert also features Shostakovich’s Piano Quintet, a classic in 20th-century chamber music. Despite being composed in the shadow of World War II, the quintet is imbued with purity and lyricism, offering a glimpse of light amidst dark times.

The performance culminates in excerpts from Bach’s final masterpiece, The Art of Fugue, arranged for string quartet. This intricate work showcases Bach’s genius and serves as a testament to his enduring legacy.