Dezső Ránki and Zoltán Kocsis
In keeping with tradition, the first night of the season will feature works by Bartók, showing contrasting faces of the composer from different periods in his life. Mature works of his youth are represented by Two Images (1910) and the undeservedly rarely heard symphonic cycle Four Pieces for Orchestra with its late-Romantic passion and French colours. Premièred in 1923, the Dance Suite contrasts the characteristic motifs of the music of the Danube peoples in what is Bartók’s personal creed. Composed in New York, he dedicated his last completed work, the Piano Concerto No. 3, to his wife. Dezső Ránki is one of few artists who can boast this twilight masterpiece to be their musical vernacular.