Denève: Mahler 1

Gabriela Montero’s improvisational approach and Mahler’s expansive First Symphony shape an orchestral program led by Stéphane Denève at New World Center. The concert takes place Saturday, February 20 and Sunday, February 21 as part of New World Symphony’s 2026-2027 season. NWS Conducting Fellow Ziwei Ma opens the program with Grażyna Bacewicz’s wartime Overture, followed by Montero as soloist in Shostakovich’s quick-witted Piano Concerto No. 1.

Montero, a Venezuelan pianist known for her spontaneous improvisations as well as her interpretations of the standard repertoire, brings a distinctive live element to the program. Her appearance pairs naturally with Shostakovich’s concerto, a brisk and sharply characterized work that moves between lyricism, satire and theatrical flair.

After intermission, Denève conducts Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 in D major, “Titan,” a large-scale work that moves from nature-inspired stillness to rustic dance, shadowed funeral march and storm-driven finale. The program also highlights Ma, New World Symphony’s Conducting Fellow and a 2026-28 recipient of the Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship.