Work of the Week - Mikis Theodorakis: Rhapsody for trumpet and orchestra

On Thursday 9th October 2008, Mikis Theodorakis’ three rhapsodies for orchestra and solo instrument will be performed alongside each other for the first time by the European Philharmonic Orchestra at the Kölner Philharmonie.  The third addition to this set, Rhapsody for Trumpet and Orchestra, was written in close collaboration with trumpet virtuoso Otto Sauter and will receive its world premiere with Sauter as soloist.  Theodorakis’ Rhapsody for Guitar, Voice and Orchestra and his Rhapsody for Cello and Orchestra will also be performed by Maria Farantouri (voice), Julius Berger (cello), Dominic Miller (guitar) under the baton of Hans Ulrich Kolf and Istvan Dénés.  A second performance at the Berliner Philharmonie will be taking place on Monday 13th October.

“Seldom has a human being fascinated me so much and moved me so often.  Mikis, who has experienced so much misery, yet whose vitality and creativeness remain unbroken. Mikis, the musician, the composer, whose music touches, delights and captivates millions of people making him immortal. When I practise this new work, I breathe the scent of the cypresses, hear the rush of the Aegean Sea and feel in every single note, Mikis Theodorakis." (Otto Sauter)

• Mikis Theodorakis - Profile
• Cologne Philharmonic
• Berlin Philharmonic