The Philadelphia Orchestra: Philadelphia Firsts February 23, 2013

Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring received its U.S. premieres in both staged and concert versions right here in Philadelphia, under Stokowski’s direction. Now, in a first-of-its-kind partnership with Philadelphia Live Arts, The Philadelphia Orchestra collaborates with the New York-based Ridge Theater to present a 21st-century treatment of The Rite of Spring with dancers, video projection, and theatrical lighting. Philadelphia also gave the first American performances of Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G, which will be performed by star soloist Jean-Yves Thibaudet. The program opens with a modern-day Philadelphia first, the world premiere of a brand new composition by Oliver Knussen, co-commissioned by The Philadelphia Orchestra and the Pittsburgh Symphony.

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