Berlin Philharmonic returns to Brazil for charity concerts

The Berlin Philharmonic is returning to Brazil after 26 years for two benefit concerts at Sala São Paulo on October 18 and 19. Conducted by Kirill Petrenko, the performances are organized by the Association for Children and Adolescents with Cancer (TUCCA) to raise funds for medication.

The program includes works by Brahms, Richard Strauss, Edward Elgar, and Tchaikovsky, featuring soloist Vikingur Olafsson. Beyond the main concerts, orchestra members will participate in ten free masterclasses and perform at the TUCCA Day Hospital.

Conductor Kirill Petrenko noted that while he respects the legacy of former conductor Herbert von Karajan, he aims to evolve the orchestra’s sound to ensure different composers maintain their distinct identities. Violinist Eva-Maria Tomasi expressed hope for a warm reception similar to the orchestra’s previous visit to Latin America in 2000.