Russian orchestra to tour U.S.
New York Times Article published Mar 4, 2006 [full text]
MOSCOW — In a classical music season focused on the anniversaries of Mozart and Shostakovich, the Russian National Orchestra, Russia's first and foremost independent orchestra, visits New York bearing Tchaikovsky. In programs at Avery Fisher Hall on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday, it will offer nothing but, except a dash of Stravinsky, and even that is based on music of Tchaikovsky.
Lincoln Center requested Tchaikovsky, said Vladimir Jurowski, the orchestra's principal guest conductor, who will lead these concerts. He agreed, he said, on the condition that he could perform mostly lesser-known repertory.
...Jurowski, who combines fiery looks with a restrained demeanor, offered the perspective of a conductor with Russian roots and broad Western experience. "From the early start of this orchestra's activity, they have learned to work, I would say, the Western way; they are very quick, they're very flexible," he said. "They combine the Western approach to the music making with the inimitable Russian essence."
That combination had been reflected in international recording contracts. It is the first Russian orchestra to win a Grammy, and it is recording all of Beethoven's symphonies for Deutsche Grammophon, an honor previously accorded only the best German orchestras and the Vienna Philharmonic....
American patrons have embraced the Russian National Orchestra, coming to Russia for concerts in Moscow and the orchestra's annual Volga River cruise, which transports the entire ensemble and guests to concerts at historic cities.
In New York next week, a gala on Tuesday at the St. Regis Hotel will honor Charles Simonyi, Microsoft's former chief architect and a major patron? Gordon Getty, the billionaire philanthropist, and the Napa Valley vintner Peter T. Paul are among the orchestra's leading patrons. The orchestra has performed extensively in California wine country and will inaugurate the Festival Del Sole in Napa Valley this summer.
Richard P. Walker, of the Russian Arts Foundation, an American group that backs the orchestra financially and organizationally, defined its attraction for Americans. "It's determined, entrepreneurial, philanthropic," he said. "A lot of traits that define Americans as well as define great orchestras and other good things around the world."