Pianist Javier Perianes sits in front of a grand piano

Javier Perianes performs Saint-Saëns

30 July – 2 August 2025

In the Concert Hall

Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Classical Music

Prepare for a fascinating voyage through exotic landscapes to the great expanses of the human heart. 

A fascinating voyage

Spanish pianist Javier Perianes ‘really is an exquisite musician’, says The Times (London), and here he brings his ‘trademark polish and poetic sensitivity’ (Limelight) to Saint-Saëns’ thrilling Piano Concerto No.5. With its evocation of frogs and crickets croaking by the Nile and drawing upon the sounds of Nubian folk song, Saint-Saëns conjures a vibrant and romantic memory of Egypt. Acclaimed pianist Perianes brings each scene to life in dazzling colour.

The William Tell Overture is one of the most thrilling ever written. As this famous piece gallops to its conclusion, you’ll understand why Rossini is considered a master of getting an audience excited.

Shostakovich lived a tumultuous life, and on the surface his Fifteenth Symphony seems mired in introspection. But his humour always shines through, from the glockenspiel that opens this symphony to his mischievous reference to Rossini’s Overture. In a concert that swings between darkness and light, Shostakovich captures everything it is to be human.

Presented by Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Programme

ROSSINI William Tell: Overture
SAINT-SAËNS Piano Concerto No.5, Egyptian
SHOSTAKOVICH Symphony No.15

Artist information

KEVIN JOHN EDUSEI conductor
JAVIER PERIANES piano

Please note, Gustavo Gimeno was previously scheduled to conduct these performances. The Sydney Symphony Orchestra are grateful to Kevin John Edusei for making a very welcome return to Sydney to lead these performances.

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