Poga Conducts Shostakovich

Two compositions that address the ultimate logic of existence are the subject of this highly dramatic concert. Isle of the Dead is a moving tone poem by Rachmaninoff, inspired by the painting of the same name by Arnold Böcklin and Symphony No. 13, "Babi Yar", by Shostakovich is a magnificent work for bass, male choir and orchestra to poems by Yevgeny Yevtushenko. The work is a testament to moral fortitude and human compassion, where bitter irony and deep grief collide. Together, these two masterpieces create a powerful experience that leaves no one untouched. Bass singer Alexander Roslavets is a rising star in the opera world and has been well received everywhere he goes. Conductor Andris Poga conducted the Iceland Symphony Orchestra last year to great acclaim.

Conductor

Andris Poga

Bass

Alexander Roslavets

Choirs

The Fóstbræður Male Choir

Kyrja Vocal Ensemble

Program

Sergei Rachmaninoff Isle of the Dead

Dmitri Shostakovich Symphony No. 13, “Babi Yar”