Programme

Dmitri Shostakovich: Prelude and Scherzo Op. 11
Joseph Haydn: Piano Concerto in G Major Hob XVIII:4
Nino Rota: Concerto for Strings
Dmitri Shostakovich: Chamber Symphony opus 118a 

Candida Thompson, artistic director and lead violin
Theodosia Ntokou, piano

Amsterdam Sinfonietta occupies a unique position on the Dutch music scene as professional string orchestra. It is regularly invited to perform in concert halls throughout the world as one of the very few large-scale string ensembles on the international scene.

What sets Amsterdam Sinfonietta apart from the ‘regular’ chamber orchestras is the top priority it gives to a ‘chamber music mentality’. Every one of its musicians assumes the responsibilities of a solo player. This approach guarantees a high level of involvement on the part of the musicians when they perform as an ensemble, resulting in performances of rare dynamism and intensity that involve the listener in a vibrant live music experience.

Sinfonietta enjoyed intense collaborations with internationally renowned soloists, such as Kim Kashkashian, Gidon Kremer, Murray Perahia, Yo-Yo Ma, Martin Fröst, Menahem Pressler, Isaac Stern, Maxim Vengerov, Thomas Zehetmair, Sarah Chang, Janine Jansen, Christianne Stotijn, Bobby McFerrin and Cristina Branco, who have shown their appreciation for the ensemble’s flexible approach and artistic drive. Amsterdam Sinfonietta has recorded an impressive number of CD's.

Theodosia Ntokou, graduate of the Athens Conservatory and the Berlin University of the Arts, is winner of the Bradshaw and Buono International Piano Competition (2007).