The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) is a vanguard of classical music performance and under the direction of its new Music Director, Vasily Petrenko, is being recognized as one of the world’s most forward-thinking and boundary-pushing symphony orchestras in the world. Its 75th Anniversary program showcases a trio of 20th century gems, including Benjamin Britten’s sublime Four Sea Interludes and Rachmaninoff’s spirited Symphonic Dances. Elgar’s Cello Concerto will be played by cello virtuoso Kian Soltani, praised by The Times as a “remarkable cellist” and described by Gramophone as “sheer perfection.” This stunning concert of cherished works is the perfect performance to reconnect with live, classical music.
Soltani’s virtuosity is characterized by a depth of expression, technical mastery, and emotional connection with the audience. The Washington Post praises Soltani’s talents, stating, “His cello sound has the fuzz and richness of caramel, and he plays with an easy warmth, drawing the orchestra after him like a halo around a candle flame.”
Born in Bregenz, Austria to a family of Persian musicians, Soltani began playing the cello at age four and was only 12 when he joined Ivan Monighetti’s class at the Basel Music Academy. Soltani, at age 21, attracted worldwide attention in April 2013 as winner of the International Paulo Cello Competition in Helsinki where he was hailed by Ostinato Magazine as “a soloist of the highest level among the new generation of cellists.” Since then, Soltani has rapidly grown with well-deserved prestige and fame within musical communities all around the world.
Reaching out to his fans and fellow cello lovers, Soltani has a widespread digital presence, communicating and connecting during a time of musical cancellations and uncertainty. Active on social media, such as Instagram and Facebook, Soltani aims to share the wealth of his musical abilities. For a more in-depth look into his career and future, the Center highly recommends checking out his YouTube channel, specifically his latest video, “New Album Updates and Q&A,” which answers fans’ questions and expands on projects of his.
The Center invites you to join us for the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, featuring cellist Kian Soltani, on January 29. For more information, please visit our website.