Alexandra Dowgan, Julian Rachlin and Kristiansand Symfoniorkester

None other than Franz Liszt was one of the first pianists to play Edvard Grieg's only piano concerto, which is now considered one of the pinnacle works of 19th century literature. And according to historical accounts, he was thrilled. "Continue like this, I tell you, you have what it takes, and - don't let yourself be deterred," he summed up his enthusiasm for the composer. That the Russian pianist Alexandra Dowgan with just 18 years of age is following in Liszt's footsteps as soloist is based on years of international success as a child prodigy. Your partners are the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra and its chief conductor Julian Rachlin. After the break, the Herbstgold director and the guests from Norway dedicate themselves to the rousing symphony “From the New World”, uplifting music rooted in the union of European and American folk music. Dvořák's tone poem "Carnival", written after his return to Europe, celebrates the joys of existence.

Extasy

The HERBSTGOLD - Festival 2025 invites you to experience music in its deepest and most moving form. Under the motto “Extasy”, we dedicate ourselves to those moments in which music takes us beyond the everyday - into a state of intense devotion in which sounds, emotions and interpretation merge into an inseparable unity.

Ecstasy in music means the complete penetration of a work - for the performers as well as for the audience. These are the moments when a note resonates and time seems to stand still for a moment. When passion, virtuosity and expressiveness build a bridge between art and soul.

Experience renowned artists, extraordinary programs and inspiring encounters in the special ambience of Esterházy Palace. Let yourself be carried away by the power of music - to a festival that is entirely dedicated to the search for the sublime

 - JULIAN RACHLIN

Program and cast

Alexandra Dowgan, piano
Julian Rachlin, conductor
Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra

Programme

Antonín Dvořák: Karneval-Ouverture op. 92
Edvard Grieg: Piano concert a-Minor op. 16
Antonín Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 in e minor op. 95 (“From the New World”)