Claudio Abbado conducts Bizet, Rachmaninov, Sarasate, Ravel, Falla, and Brahms

Relive a magnificent and unforgettable tribute to Carmen conducted by the legendary Claudio Abbado in 1997, joined by a knockout lineup of star soloists: an evening devoted to that allure of faraway lands that has inspired so many composers' greateset works. The Berliner Philharmoniker opens this gala concert on a festive note with excerpts from Bizet's Carmen, featuring an entrancing Habanera by Anne Sofie von Otter, a mighty toreador turn by Bryn Terfel and a romantic Don José by Roberto Alagna! Further highlights include Rachmaninov's electrifying Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini with the virtuoso Mikhail Pletnev, the beloved Sarasate Carmen Fantasy with violin royalty Gil Shaham, Ravel's dreams of Spain in the irresistible Rapsodie espagnole, and Falla's real-life Spain in the famous, frenzied Ritual Fire Dance from his ballet El amor brujo. Brahms's Hungarian Dance No. 5, inspired by fiery folk themes, brings the festivities to a resounding close with plenty of energy to spare.