Albrecht conducts Korngold and Sjostakovitsj

Whether chosen or forced, exile marks a new beginning. Erich Korngold found fame in California, yet his only symphony remains his most personal, tension-filled work. Dutch-Kurdish composer Hawar Tawfiq also understands displacement; his piece rIJks captures a wonder-filled musical discovery of Amsterdam. Meanwhile, Shostakovich sought inner exile to survive Stalin’s regime. His Cello Concerto No. 1 , written in calmer waters after Stalin’s death, remains a profound masterpiece of creative resistance. Performed by top cellist Daniel Müller-Schott, this programme explores the moving intersection of displacement, survival, and artistic brilliance.