The second half of the program was dedicated to Shostakovich's Symphony No 10, presented in tribute to the composer's 120th birth anniversary. Widely regarded as one of today's foremost interpreters of Shostakovich, Nelsons demonstrated his deep understanding of the composer's musical language, guiding the orchestra through the symphony's dramatic emotional landscape with authority and precision.
Following prolonged applause and repeated curtain calls, Nelsons and the orchestra returned to the stage for an encore: Shostakovich's lighthearted Moscow, Cheryomushki overture, offering a playful and uplifting conclusion to the evening.
The orchestra's Beijing residency continued on May 30 and 31 with two additional themed concerts. Audiences were invited to enjoy landmark works closely connected to the orchestra's history, including Beethoven's Piano Concerto No 5 "Emperor" and Schumann's Symphony No 1 "Spring", both of which were premiered by the orchestra.
