This weekend, Garrick Ohlsson steps in on short notice to perform Beethoven’s majestic Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, nicknamed “Emperor,” with The Philadelphia Orchestra. Conducted by Tugan Sokhiev, the program celebrates the works of Beethoven and also includes the composer’s Symphony No. 4.

Garrick Ohlsson’s interpretation of Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto has garnered widespread acclaim, with the Berkeley Daily Planet calling it “almost a benchmark for all pianists” and The New York Times declaring that the concerto “could have been written for Mr. Ohlsson.”

This engagement holds special resonance, marking 55 years since Ohlsson made his debut with the orchestra under the legendary Eugene Ormandy, a partnership that helped launch his international career and began a long, celebrated relationship with The Philadelphia Orchestra.

The performances take place on April 25 and 27 at 2:00 PM and April 26 at 8:00 PM at Marion Anderson Hall.

Photo: Dario Acosta