Sunday Classics: Japan Philharmonic Orchestra at Usher Hall

With a career spanning more than half a century, eminent British pianist John Lill is a commanding figure throughout the international classical world. Hes revered for his enormous integrity, his profound insights, his captivating charisma all brilliantly on show at his magnificent Usher Hall performance in January 2017.Playing music by Beethoven long a particular speciality Lill is like a force of nature. In this compelling concert full of connections and contrasts, Lill is soloist in the Third Piano Concerto, one of Beethovens most fiercely dramatic pieces right from its stirring opening, it grabs you and never lets go.He joins Tokyos fine Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the countrys most respected symphony orchestras, under its vibrant young Finnish Chief Conductor Pietari Inkinen. Celebrated internationally for his enthralling performances full of passion and imagination, Inkinen is one of todays most exciting classical figures.Inkinen brings the concert to a joyful conclusion with the rousing optimism of his compatriot Sibeliuss Second Symphony, and opens with the evocative soundscapes of fellow Finn Rautavaara. In between, the fragile, austere beauty of Japanese composer Toru Takemitsus brief but potent Requiem for Strings.