Yesterday, we opened our 9th season with one of Europe’s finest orchestras, the Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich, and its music director, Paavo Järvi. The audience at the Palau de la Música Catalana on Monday was also thrilled by the presence of a highly anticipated guest, Lisa Batiashvili, returning to Barcelona after a 14-year absence. The evening was defined by two legendary names: Sergei Prokofiev and Gustav Mahler.
The audience welcomed the orchestra with a grand ovation that grew even louder upon the entrance of the Estonian conductor and the German violinist. The first half of the evening featured Prokofiev's "Violin Concerto No. 2", with its expressive Andante and the impressive Allegro ben marcato finale. This piece received enthusiastic applause, particularly for soloist Lisa Batiashvili, who showed why she is among the most sought-after violinists today.
The second half showcased Mahler’s monumental “Seventh Symphony.” The chemistry between the orchestra and the conductor, who has led them since 2019, was evident from the opening notes. Together, they demonstrated impeccable cohesion in a more than hour-long performance that concluded with much of the audience on their feet.
It was an evening that marked a promising start to the season.