Considered amongst part of the world’s conducting elite, award-winning Maestro Yuri Temirkanov, chief conductor of the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra led a flawless performance. Opening with the rousing Overture from opera The Barber of Seville by Rossini, the rapturous audience were then transported on a journey through Tchaikovsky’s classical greats. UN Goodwill Ambassador Vengerov joined the orchestra as soloist for a soulful rendition of Tchaikovsky’s deeply moving Violin Concerto in D. The St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra

brought the evening to a close with Tchaikovsky’s stunning Symphony No. 4 in F minor.

 

Speaking directly after the performance, Her Excellency Mrs. Hoda I Al Khamis Kanoo, Artistic Director and Founder of the Abu Dhabi Festival, said: “This evening’s concert celebrated the very best of Russia’s lasting contribution to classical music and performance. We have truly ‘connected cultures’ through the Abu Dhabi Festival this evening. I am sure I speak for the whole audience in saying that the music combined with the skill and precision of the musicians was truly mesmerizing.”

 

As a true advocate of musical education, during his visit to Abu Dhabi Maxim Vengerov took on his teaching role and interacted with local students through ‘Back to School with Mubadala’, an educational initiative that takes visiting performers into schools and community centres across Abu Dhabi.The famous Russian conductor and dynamic violinist visited GEMS International School yesterday and inspired students with a mini-performance and masterclass on playing the violin. Maxim’s natural passion for nurturing the youth reemphasized the importance of music in a child’s development as he noted “our greatest investment is in our children.” a Running from the 11th March to the 6th April, the Abu Dhabi Festival is currently enjoying its ninth successful cycle. Bringing together a programme that spans the full spectrum of arts and culture, the Abu Dhabi Festival combines world-class talent with a thriving community and education programme. Amongst the performances to look forward to in the third week of the Abu Dhabi Festival is the world premiere performance of oud master Nasser Shamma and The

Global Music Ensemble, on the 24th March at the Emirates Palace auditorium.