AllMovie

A word of explanation for the unfamiliar: each year, to kick off its new season of classical music, The Berliner Philharmoniker mounts a special concert at the legendary Waldbühne in Berlin. This particular release profiles the 2009 production of that concert. As conducted by Sir Simon Rattle, the theme in question is "Russian Rhythms," and the Philharmoniker welcomes Russian pianist Yefim Bronfman as its guest of honor for the event. Selections on display include Rachmaninov's Third Piano Concerto, music from Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring, and several selections from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker.