Speaking to pianist Orli Shaham was a real treat. This week, she and her brother, violinist Gil Shaham join the National Symphony Orchestra to perform the world premiere of a double concerto written for them by Reena Esmail. Orli’s husband, David Robertson, will conduct the program which also includes Carl Nielsen’s Helios Overture and Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No.5. Concerts are February 26, 27 and 28.
In the following interview, Orli Shaham shared her delight in performing with her brother. In fact, it was the luminous cover of their first album together, “Dvorak for Two” recorded nearly 30 years ago, that inspired Reena Esmail to write the double concerto. Orli describes how she fell in love with Esmail’s unique language, which blends Western and Hindustani classical traditions into a lush, gorgeous soundscape. She also tells us about the process of putting together a world premiere, and her pride in performing with the National Symphony musicians. “There's nothing like hearing a world premiere: it’s the most exciting thing in the world.”
In fact, Orli Shaham and members of Pacific Symphony have just released a new album “American Tapestry” featuring world premiere recordings of commissioned works by living American composers. However, she is also acclaimed for her recordings of the complete Mozart Sonatas. “I love playing older music for sure, no question, but I think playing new music needs to be a regular part of what we do.”
Oh, and by the way, WETA Classical listeners will recognize Shaham from her appearances on “From the Top” (heard Sunday evenings at 6) where she is guest host and creative. Combined with her teaching at Juilliard, she is instrumental in nurturing the next generation of musicians and music lovers. You can see why I enjoyed talking to her so much!
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