Dmitry Yablonsky conducts Amirov and Stravinsky

A colourful programme featuring two rare gems from Azerbaijani composer Fikret Amirov. Overlooking the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan is a cultural melting pot bubbling with influences from Eastern Europe, Western Asia and the Middle East. Fusing Azerbaijani folkmusic with powerful orchestration, Amirov transports us to his homeland in the mysterious Azerbaijan Capriccio and exotic Piano Concerto, which was influenced by Arabic music. The piano is also featured in Stravinsky’s ballet Petrushka, a mesmerising depiction of an unfortunate Russian puppet. Written early in the twentieth century and revised in 1947, this is a masterpiece full of intricate rhythms and inventive orchestration.

Free for all concert ticket holders: The Mountains of Gabala; a 30-minute film documenting the city of Gabala and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s residency at the Gabala International Music Festival, featuring conductor Dmitry Yablonsky and pianist Farhad Badalbeyli, Artistic Directors of Gabala Festival. Main auditorium 6.15pm.