Kiril Petrenko, the new chief conductor at Berlin Philharmonic, has announced his first season – with Beethoven’s work centre stage. In honour of the composer’s 250th birthday, the orchestra will perform major pieces such as Missa Solemnis, Fidelio and his 9th Symphony.
Petrenko is the orchestra’s seventh chief conductor, succeeding Simon Rattle. After the 2019-20 season opens with a concert at the Brandenburg Gate on 23 August, Berlin Phil will head on tour through Germany and Europe celebrating the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two.
Composer, Josef Suk will also feature. “His music was one of the greatest discoveries of the past few years for me,” commented Petrenko. There will also be an emphasis on Edgard Varèse, with pieces heard throughout the season.
Soprano Marlis Petersen will serve as artist in residence, performing in Alban Berg’s Lulu Suite at the opening concert. Petersen will also make her debut in the role of Leonore in Fidelio. Said Petersen: “The residency with the Berlin Philharmonic is a great honour for me.”