NSOI: Clara-Jumi Kang plays Sibelius Violin Concerto No. 5

National Symphony Orchestra Ireland
Alexander Shelley conductor
Clara-Jumi Kang violin 
 
Amelia Clarkson Porcelain (World Premiere & NSOI Commission)
Sibelius Violin Concerto 
Beethoven Symphony No. 5

Join National Symphony Orchestra Ireland, conducted by Alexander Shelley, for an unforgettable evening that brings together timeless masterpieces of the Classical and Romantic repertoire paired with an exciting new voice in Irish contemporary music. 

The concert opens with the world premiere of Porcelain by Northern Irish composer Amelia Clarkson (a former participant for National Symphony Orchestra Ireland ‘s Composer Lab). Inspired by Beethoven, Amelia describes the work as “tracing the line between fragile luminosity and strength, echoing the emotional intensity and resilience within Beethoven’s ex-perience of the world”. 

Internationally acclaimed South Korean–German violinist Clara-Jumi Kang, praised by The Scotsman as “a staggeringly talented performer,” takes centre stage for Sibelius’s sensational Violin Concerto. A work of deep lyricism and dramatic intensity, it showcases her exceptional artistry and technical brilliance.

At the heart of the programme is Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, instantly recognisable from its iconic four-note opening motif. Composed between 1804 and 1808, as Beethoven was gradually losing his hearing, the work embodies his famous idea of “fate knocking at the door.” Often called the “Fate Symphony,” it traces a powerful journey from tension and struggle to triumphant resolution across its four movements, standing as one of the most celebrated masterpieces in orchestral music. 

An inspiring and unmissable programme, one of the many concerts marking Beethoven’s 200th anniversary year at the National Concert Hall, equally rewarding for first-time listeners and de-voted concertgoers alike.

Presented by NCH