Unique Dvořák

Antonin Dvořák’s lyrical Cello Concerto: known among cellists as the ultimate cello concerto. Five cellos sing the famous piece in an arrangement by Paul Handschke. Moreover, the piece is shown with an entirely new dimension in this arrangement, which shines a light on an array of details easy to miss in the original music. The same effect can be seen in Tchaikovsky’s warm-blooded and romantic Serenade, in an arrangement for four cellos.
 
Handschke is the principal cellist of the Tonhalle Orchestra in Zürich. He created his arrangement during the pandemic, during which his orchestra couldn’t perform, but there were performing opportunities for smaller ensembles. Handschke’s arrangement became a hit on YouTube, partly thanks to the passionate rendition of the five Swiss cellist friends who are here for this evening as well.

This concert is part of the Kick-Off: a festive day to look forward to the upcoming festival.