Under the baton of Jonathan Nott, the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande takes the audience on a journey through the musical avant-garde of the early 20th century, with two masterpieces by Igor Stravinsky and a dazzling interlude by Maurice Ravel. The concert opens with Petrouchka (1911), a ballet in four scenes depicting the tragic tale of a puppet who becomes all too human, set against the backdrop of a bustling Russian fair. Stravinsky showcases bold rhythmic invention and brilliant orchestration, laying the groundwork for the musical revolution that would erupt with The Rite of Spring. Premiered in 1913, this monumental work shattered classical conventions with its raw power, primal rhythms, and vivid evocation of ancient pagan rituals.

Between these two groundbreaking orchestral works, American pianist George Li performs Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major, composed in the early 1930s. Infused with jazz influences, this concerto is a model of elegance, virtuosity, and clarity. In three contrasting movements—sparkling and jazzy, lyrical and introspective, then energetic and playful—Ravel creates a subtle dialogue between piano and orchestra, rich with fantasy and refinement. The program thus presents three landmark works of the 20th century, shaped by the singular genius of two composers whose visions of rhythm, folklore, and modernity have left a lasting imprint on music history and OSR.