Bruckner 2

Bruckner's Second Symphony is often referred to as the "Symphony of Pauses." But don't worry: these pauses are not silent, but full of tension and give the music room to breathe. A music that was initially considered unplayable by contemporaries. The Vienna Philharmonic initially rejected the work, stating it was far too long. Bruckner shortened it, rented the large hall at the Musikverein at his own expense, rehearsed thoroughly with the orchestra – and succeeded. And what a success it was; the applause from the audience at the premiere on 26 October 1873 seemed endless. Bruckner himself later referred to it as "the most memorable day of my life." Today, the symphony stands somewhat in the shadow of its successors, but unjustly so. Everything that Bruckner lovers appreciate: the grand arcs of tension, the delicate as well as the monumental moments, the abrupt pauses and new beginnings – they are all present here. Robert Treviño loves Bruckner and has conducted his works numerous times. <br><br>Unfortunately, Christoph Eschenbach had to cancel the conducting of the two concerts on 25 and 26 April 2026 for health reasons. We are pleased that Robert Treviño, who has already guest-conducted with the Dresden Philharmonic several times, will take over the conducting. The programme remains unchanged.