Ep 88. Vienna Philharmonic Summer Night Concert 2014

The Vienna Philharmonic Summer Night Concert 2014 is a mesmerizing episode of the Great Performances series that showcases the talents of one of the world's most renowned orchestras. Filmed in the stunning Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, the performance is an exquisite mix of classical favorites and lesser-known pieces that showcase the orchestra's incredible range.

The show opens with an energetic performance of Franz von Suppé's Light Cavalry Overture. This fast-paced piece is accompanied by stunning visuals of the orchestra in action and the beautiful palace gardens. The audience is treated to close-up views of the talented musicians as they play this challenging piece with precision and skill.

Next up is the charming and playful "Tales from the Vienna Woods" by Johann Strauss II. The orchestra masterfully captures the whimsy and joy of this piece, transporting the audience to a simpler, more carefree time. The camera pans over the delighted faces of the audience members as they tap their toes and sway to the music.

The orchestra then takes on the challenging and technically demanding "Intermezzo" from Richard Strauss's opera, Intermezzo. The delicate interplay between the orchestra's various sections is a true testament to the skill and talent of these musicians. The piece builds in intensity and complexity before coming to a dramatic and satisfying close.

The show then takes a sharp turn into the world of contemporary classical music with a performance of Lera Auerbach's "Icarus". This avant-garde piece is haunting and evocative, with the orchestra masterfully executing the complex rhythms and dissonant harmonies. Though this piece may challenge some viewers' preconceived notions of what classical music should be, it is a stunning display of the orchestra's versatility and willingness to push boundaries.

The next two pieces, "Blue Danube Waltz" and "Radetzky March" by Johann Strauss II, are perhaps the most well-known and beloved pieces in the entire classical canon. The orchestra's performance of "Blue Danube Waltz" is a triumph, with the musicians bringing out the beauty and nuance of this iconic piece. The audience members can be seen swaying and singing along to the infectious melody.

"Radetzky March" is a rousing finale to the performance, with the orchestra playing this rousing piece with energy and gusto. As the camera pans over the audience, it's clear that this performance has cast a spell over them. The Vienna Philharmonic Summer Night Concert 2014 is a beautiful and unforgettable episode of Great Performances that showcases the incredible talent of one of the world's most renowned orchestras.