Leading German composer, Richard Strauss, once conducted the ensemble in 1912

Organised by the friends of the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, the celebrated Russian musicians will be welcomed to the stage on the 1st and 2nd September for two unforgettable evenings of classical music.

Under the direction of legendary conductor Yuri Temirkanov, one of the world’s greatest conducting authorities, the Orchestra’s appearance on Monegasque soil is destined to be one of the season’s biggest must-see musical events.

On the programme for the first night will be the performance of Petrouchka, a ballet by Stravinsky, in which music accompanies the story of a Russian straw puppet who comes to life, and a Tchaïkovsky piano concerto with internationally acclaimed soloist, Denis Matsuev.

The second and final night will hear Russian composer Rimsky-Korsakov’s Easter Festival Overture, Tchaikovsky’s 5th symphony and Variations on a Rococo Theme played by solo cellist Dimitri Masslenikov.

Said to be among the most extraordinary Russian soloists of our time, Matsuev and Masslenikov will no doubt leave long lasting impressions on awed audiences.

Founded in 1882, and initially known as the ‘Imperial Music Choir,’ the Orchestra once performed privately for the court of Tsar Alexander III and played at the Coronation of Nicolas II. Today they are one of Europe’s largest orchestras and their appearance in the Principality promises two momentous evenings of impressive energy and musical vigour, not to be forgotten.

Emma Hawcroft