The Concerto that Shocked the World…

When Tchaikovsky first unveiled his First Piano Concerto, he was told it was ‘unplayable’ by Nikolai Rubenstein – the very person expected to give its premiere.

This occasion has become one of the most notorious incidents in the composer’s biography. Yet today, it’s one of the most electrifying and beloved works in the entire repertoire.

Inspired by musicians in Kiev market, the opening melody grips you from the very first note. Those dramatic opening piano chords are one of the reasons why audiences still go wild for this piece.

Inspired by musicians in Kiev market, the opening melody grips you from the very first note. Those dramatic opening piano chords are one of the reasons why audiences still go wild for this piece.

Tchaikovsky’s First Concerto

With Marc Corbett-Weaver

St George’s Hanover Square | Tuesday 9 June 2026, 7.30pm
London Firebird Orchestra
Conductor George Jackson | Piano Marc Corbett-Weaver

Tchaikovsky
Piano Concerto no. 1 in B flat minor, Op. 23

Rachmaninoff
Symphony no. 2 in E minor, Op. 27