Bahrami Plays Bach

Zagreb Classic opens with a collaboration between the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra with one of the most interesting interpreters of Johann Sebastian Bach’s music – Iranian pianist Ramin Bahrami. Back in 2009, after performing in Leipzig with the Gewandhaus Orchestra under the direction of Riccardo Chailly, German critics declared him “a wizard of sound, a poet of keys… an extraordinary artist who has the courage to face Bach in a truly personal way”. The program brings a sumptuous blend of romantic orchestral imagery – from scenes from Peer Gynt and vivid Slavonic Dances – to the timeless elegance of Bach’s writing, which focuses precisely on dialogue between soloists and orchestra.

The program is led by Dawid Runtz, chief conductor of the Zagreb Philharmonic since 2021 and one of Europe’s most acclaimed conductors of the younger generation. The Polish maestro, described by Croatian critics as “born to conduct,” has built an international career marked by collaborations with leading orchestras and appearances on prestigious stages.

The Zagreb Philharmonic, an orchestra with more than 150 years of tradition and one of the most enduring symbols of Croatian musical culture, has shaped the artistic life of Zagreb and Croatia for generations. This year, with four festival concerts, it once again confirms its key role in shaping the identity of Zagreb Classic.

Edvard Grieg: Peer Gynt, Suite No. 1, Op. 46
Morning Mood
Åse’s Death
Anitra’s Dance
In the Hall of the Mountain King

Antonín Dvořák: Slavonic Dances, Op. 46
Dumka, No. 2
Furiant, No. 8

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Johann Sebastian Bach: Concerto No. 1 in D minor, BWV 1052
Allegro
Adagio
Allegro

Johann Sebastian Bach: Concerto No. 5 in F minor, BWV 1056
Allegro moderato
Largo
Presto

Johann Sebastian Bach: Air from Suite No. 3 in D minor, BWV 1068

Note: In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the event will take place the following day.