Musical rage against fascism and dictators

Moldovan violinist Alexandra Conunova last performed in Palma in April 2023.

The Balearic Symphony Orchestra’s invited soloist, this was for Bartok’s Violin Concerto No. 2, composed at a time when Hungary was greatly concerned about the rise of fascism. She is returning for an orchestra programme under the title of ‘Heroic Festival’, which will feature Beethoven’s Heroic Symphony, originally dedicated to Napoleon before the composer was enraged by Bonaparte proclaiming himself emperor.

There will also be Austrian composer Erich Korngold’s Violin Concerto. Written in 1945, Korngold, exiled in Hollywood, had vowed to only write film music until Hitler was defeated. The concerto, recognised for its technical complexity, was his response.