Beethoven's masterpieces live: NDR Radiophilharmonie in Wolfsburg!

Beethoven's masterpieces live: NDR Radiophilharmonie in Wolfsburg!

On November 2nd, 2025, music lovers can look forward to a very special performance NDR Radio Philharmonic at the Scharoun Theater in Wolfsburg. From 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. two masterpieces of classical music are on the program: Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major, op. 58, and Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 3 in A minor, op. 56, better known as the “Scottish”. This recorded performance from October 3, 2025 promises profound musical experiences.

The virtuoso piano part is performed by the renowned pianist Ronald Brautigam, who not only recorded his own cycle of Beethoven's piano works, but also describes this composer as a "control freak". For Brautigam, the precise notation of Beethoven's works is crucial in order to develop their full expressive power. His understanding and technique are key to bringing the complex weaving of melodies and harmonies to the stage.

A conductor with ideas

Wielding the baton is Pawel Kapula, a 33-year-old conductor who is not only working on a CD project with the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, but also appreciates the musical synthesis between the clarity of Mozart and the emotional depth of Mendelssohn's Romanticism. What is special about Mendelssohn's “Scottish” Symphony is that it was inspired by a stay in Edinburgh, making it a vivid testament to the Scottish landscape and culture.

The NDR Radiophilharmonie is known for its versatility, be it at the “Hannover Proms” or in the area of ​​chamber music. With this wide range, the orchestra formation is able to effectively interpret different styles and eras and make them accessible to a wide audience.

A look at Beethoven

Beethoven himself, born on December 17, 1770 in Bonn, is considered a key figure in Western music history. He was a master of the transition between classical and romantic music. His beginnings as a composer were marked by rigorous training, and the support of his teacher Christian Gottlob Neefe helped him to publish his first works, which soon made him a name.

But Beethoven's life was not always easy. Already in his middle years he began to suffer from hearing loss, which increasingly isolated him in the last years of his creative period. Despite these challenges, he remained an innovative composer, creating masterpieces such as the Ninth Symphony and major piano concertos even while almost completely deaf. His legacy lives on and continues to inspire musicians and composers around the world today.

For all those who want to experience enthusiastic classical music, the NDR Radiophilharmonie concert is a gem - a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of these two geniuses and enjoy their timeless compositions.