WDR Rundfunkorchester Köln . Niklas Willén

Gunilla Süssmann is the newest star in the Norwegian piano firmament. She is young, full of energy and has a direct way of communicating with the public - she is really cut out to perform Gershwin's swinging 'Rhapsody in Blue'. Critics are still wrestling with question as to whether the piece should be considered as classical music with popular elements or jazz music with serious pretensions. Nonetheless, the public has, since its first performance, been wildly enthusiastic about the flashy piano passages and the typical American big band orchestration. Composers such as Bernstein and Stravinsky were also inspired by Gershwin's catchy bravura. Two of the most valued orchestral suites by Stravinsky are included in the programme. The burlesque exuberance of Bernstein's overture from 'Candide' is a perfect match for the lush orchestration of 'The Firebird' and the baroque gaiety of the 'Pulcinella Suite'.