Virtual Preconcert Conversation: Shostakovich, Schubert 3 & Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 1

Summary: Ukrainian-born piano powerhouse Alexander Gavrylyuk presents Prokofiev’s iridescent and rhythmically animated First Piano Concerto, the work with which the composer made his CSO performance debut, in 1918, as part of its U.S. premiere. James Conlon leads this program framed by Shostakovich’s steely Chamber Symphony, an adaptation of his elegiac Eighth String Quartet, and Schubert’s mercurial Symphony No. 3, which shines with youthful vigor. Michael Tilson Thomas has withdrawn from these performances due to health reasons.