Gewandhausorchester’s nights to remember in Brussels and Luxemburg

Exceptional performances are guaranteed when the Gewandhausorchester embark on their 10-city tour through Europe this February. Brussels and Luxemburg are in for a treat on the 8th and 9th respectively, kicking off the five-country musical showcase.

Established in 1743, the Gewandhausorchester is the oldest civic symphony orchestra in the world. Its unique tradition gives it singular stature among the world’s most renowned classical performers. That valued heritage comes alive in Brussels’ Palais des Beaux-Arts and Luxembourg’s Philharmonie, when the Leipzig musicians present an evening of Mendelssohn and Mahler, two composers with whom they share special historic ties.

Early in his career, Gustav Mahler served as assistant Kapellmeister (1886 – 1888), conducting the orchestra in nearly 300 performances. His time in Leipzig played a crucial role in his development as a composer. During his last year in Leipzig, Mahler completed his Symphony No. 1 and what would later become the first movement of his Symphony No. 2.   

Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy is a towering figure in the orchestra’s long line of illustrious music directors. He was the orchestra’s fifth chief Kapellmeister – from 1835 until his death in 1847 – and largely responsible for boosting the ensemble’s international reputation. Among his many stamps of achievement was launching the role of conductor in the modern sense by eliminating the division between music director and concertmaster. He also revolutionized concert programming by incorporating contemporary works more strongly in a historical context. In particular Mendelssohn is credited with reintroducing public interest in Bach's instrumental works - music that until Mendelssohn's arrival in Leipzig was largely neglected.

During his tenure, Mendelssohn oversaw the world premieres of several of his own important works, including the celebrated Violin Concerto in E minor on the evening's program in Luxemburg and Brussels.

As Official Logistics Partner, DHL is proud to assist the venerable musicians as they bring music legends and legacies to life across the finest concert stages of Europe. Since 2006, the logistics pros have leveraged their global network and wealth of expertise to transport the orchestra’s precious equipment speedily and safely on concert tours throughout Europe, America and Asia.

Performers

Riccardo Chailly, conductor

Julian Rachlin, violin

Gewandhausorchester Leipzig

Performances

February 8, 2015 – Brussels – Palais des Beaux-Arts 

February 9, 2015 – Luxemburg – Philharmonie 

Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, Concerto for violin and orchestra, op. 64

Gustav Mahler, Symphony No. 1, "Titan"