KLASSIKOM=Innovations in classical music

Paloma So on Prokofiev’s Otherworldly Escape

4 min · 9. maj 2026
episode Paloma So on Prokofiev’s Otherworldly Escape cover

Beskrivelse

In a recent performance of Sergei Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 1 at the Xinghai Concert Hall with Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Charles Dutoit, soloist Paloma So appeared visibly captivated by the score, her expression reflecting an amusement and focus that mirrored the music's intricate joy. Described as truly "otherworldly," this concerto was originally conceived while the composer was immersed in the natural beauty of the Ural Mountains. In this teaser, So explores the vivid, wintry imagery she carries throughout the 21-minute work: Atmospheric Contrasts: The music ranges from "gorgeous snowscapes" with glistening icicles to the intensity of a mountain hailstorm. The Demonic Center: The unconventional second movement—a technical and "demonic" vivacissimo—serves as a sharp departure from the surrounding movements, channeling a sense of resentment toward the world. Folklore and Dreamscapes: The work is bookended by movements inspired by Russian folklore, designed to transport the listener into another dimension. Ultimately, So views the concerto as a means of escape, moving beyond the technical demands to find a space of pure transportation. Interviewed on May 2nd, 2026 in Guangzhou. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit klassikom.substack.com [https://klassikom.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

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episode Liao Changyong Dazzles with Mahler in Hamburg cover

Liao Changyong Dazzles with Mahler in Hamburg

In a memorable evening at Hamburg, renowned baritone Prof Liao Changyong delivered a spellbinding performance of Mahler's Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen alongside Chinese classics, presented in a specially arranged chamber music setting. The concert, a testament to the long-standing artistic partnership between the music schools in Hamburg and Shanghai as well as the 40th anniversary of the twin-city, left audiences and musicians alike deeply moved at Laeiszhalle on June 19th. The SCM Chamber Music Orchestra is conducted by Clemens Malich. Prof Elmar Lampson, Professor in Composition Department of HfMT (Hochschule für Musik und Theater Hamburg) also the ex-president of HfMT attended the concert. Speaking of Liao, he was full of praise: “You understand every German word — his pronunciation and his style is amazing.” He was equally struck by the evening’s programme, which wove Chinese music alongside Mahler and Ravel: “Isn’t it amazing how this Chinese music fits so well with Mahler, with Ravel and with the Romantic music — we are one musical family between China and Europe.” Reflecting on the collaboration between the two institutions, Lampson concluded: “This concert is something very special and something really great.” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit klassikom.substack.com [https://klassikom.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

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