“When I am on stage, I give my whole self. There are no limits to performing, it’s as if there is no tomorrow. Freedom trumps perfection,” confesses the explosive and sensual French-Georgian pianist Katia Buniatishvili, who will be performing at the Herodeion on 12 July with the Athens State Orchestra under the baton of Loukas Karytinos.

The showwoman of the classical music scene, renowned worldwide for her radiant presence and unparalleled style, will present the most popular piano concerto of all time, Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto for Piano and Orchestra. This masterpiece, filled with romantic undertones, is a supreme challenge of virtuosity and a benchmark for every pianist.

The evening will open with Béla Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra, by far the most impressive and beloved symphonic work of the Hungarian pioneer. This orchestral “tour de force” is a display of power that culminates, according to the composer, in “a dance frenzy where all the peoples of the world shake hands.”

Loukas Karytinos, commenting on this special musical evening, notes: “Katia Buniatishvili is one of the most acclaimed pianists, shining with her virtuosity and personality. We are fortunate to have found the time for this collaboration, and I am confident that she will enchant the Greek audience. Tchaikovsky’s concerto suits her temperament perfectly and is immensely popular with audiences worldwide.

“Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra is one of the most important works of the 20th century. It is a genius piece, and as the title suggests, each orchestral group and musician performs as a soloist within its musical text. This work is extremely challenging to perform and highlights the level and skills of the orchestra, while also being highly enjoyable and interesting for the listener. It is not often performed, which is why I chose it for our concert. It is an opportunity for our audience to hear and enjoy it, especially in the evocative setting of the Herodeion.”