Adventurous top soloists

Witold Lutosławski
WitoldLutosławski is regarded as one of the most important composers of the 20th century. HisCello Concerto, withits distinctive, minute-long introduction for the solo cello and thrilling orchestration, gives the soloist every opportunity to shine and tell his story. The concerto is one of many works dedicated to Mstislav Rostropovich, who premiered the piece in 1970.

Composer Aftab Darvishi
Iranian-Dutch composer Aftab Darvishi is writing a new cello concerto for Iranian-Austrian cellist Kian Soltani and the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, which is making its debut at the Biennale. Aftab Darvishi’s often lyrical and emotional compositions are deeply rooted in Iran’s cultural heritage. Together with Kian Soltani, she explores ways to bring the characteristic timbres of the Iranian tradition to life through the cello.