Join us for a fun new classical music experience at the Winspear from April 24 to May 3.
Beethoven Festival features four different concerts packed with his most beloved works, from the groundbreaking Eroica Symphony, to the complete set of his piano concertos. Hear Beethoven’s masterpieces come to life in the stunning acoustics of the Winspear Centre performed by your Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to classical music, this is your chance to experience the power, beauty, and brilliance of one of history’s greatest composers.
- 4 unique programs – from the epic Eroica Symphony to virtuosic piano concertos
- 2 brilliant soloists, Marc-André Hamelin and Sheng Cai
- Hear all 5 piano concertos performed live – a unique musical opportunity!
- Pre-concert talks to enrich your experience with fascinating Beethoven insights
Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration—choose your Beethoven Festival concerts today!
Beethoven, Liszt & Piano
Conducted by Julian Kuerti
Thursday, April 24 ● 7:30 PM
Originally dedicated to Napoleon (and later removed in a fury of rage), Beethoven’s Third Symphony, nicknamed “Eroica” for its heroic qualities, was groundbreaking for its time. Liszt cleverly transforms several colourful themes in his Piano Concerto No. 2 throughout a single uninterrupted movement. Czerny’s rarely heard Grand Overture is filled with riveting and dramatic moments.
Beethoven's Eroica Symphony
Conducted by Julian Kuerti
April 26 & 27 ● 7:30 PM / 2:00 PM
Beethoven’s groundbreaking Third Symphony, nicknamed “Eroica” for its heroic qualities, was originally dedicated to Napoleon, but his name was later removed in a fury of rage. In his ESO debut, Canadian pianist Sheng Cai will perform Khachaturian’s mesmerizing Piano Concerto. A beloved Chorale by Bach and a Passacaglia based on its theme by Canadian composer Oskar Morawetz round out the program.
The Complete Beethoven Piano Concertos: Part 1
Conducted by Bernard Labadie
Friday, May 2 ● 7:30 PM
Internationally acclaimed pianist Marc-André Hamelin joins the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra for a rare performance of all five of Beethoven’s Piano Concertos over the course of two evenings. Concertos No. 1, 2, and 3 will be featured in this exciting concert.
The Complete Beethoven Piano Concertos: Part 2
Conducted by Bernard Labadie
Saturday, May 3 ● 7:30 PM
Internationally acclaimed pianist Marc-André Hamelin joins the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra for a rare performance of all five of Beethoven’s Piano Concertos over the course of two evenings. Concertos No. 4 and 5 (“Emperor”) will be featured in this exciting concert.
