Valery Gergiev, artistic director and principal conductor Denis Matsuev, piano

“[Valery] Gergiev carries a disproportionate share of the music world on his shoulders. He is something of a national hero in Russia for having kept alive the Mariinsky Theatre after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Under his leadership, the Mariinsky has become one of the most celebrated opera companies in the world.” (The New Yorker) Gergiev's long association with the Mariinsky (formerly known as the Kirov) – including 10 previous UMS concerts, most recently the five-concert cycle of Shostakovich symphonies – has raised the ensemble's profile to the point where it is now widely regarded as one of the most dynamic and exciting ensembles on the world stage today. This series-opening celebration features the fiery Russian pianist Denis Matsuev in Rachmaninoff's third piano concerto. “His technique is phenomenal”¦Perhaps he is the new Horowitz.” (The London Times)

Program: · Rachmaninoff : Piano Concerto No. 3 in d minor, Op. 30 (1900-91) · Mahler : Symphony No. 5 (1901-02)