Breathing Space

Step inside the creative world of composer-conductor Thomas Adès in this behind-the-scenes portrait filmed in his Los Angeles studio, where sunlight and stacks of scores inspire groundbreaking music. For his Cleveland Orchestra conducting debut, Adès curates a program that bridges centuries and styles, anchored by two visionary interpretations of Shakespeare's "The Tempest," Jean Sibelius's a Cleveland Orchestra co-commission. This concert also spotlights Finnish Violinist Pekka Kuusisto, Adès’s long-time collaborator, whose spirited performances capture the folk-infused charm of Sibelius's "Six Humoresques" and the whimsical energy of Adès’s "Märchentänze." Between performances, Adès reflects on his artistic process, the influence of nature, and his fascination with Sibelius as a composer on the edge of tradition and innovation. This is a rare chance to experience Adès’s music in his own words and under his own baton. Program: Sibelius - Prelude and Suite No. 1 from “The Tempest” Sibelius - Six Humoresques Thomas Adès - Märchentänze Thomas Adès - Five Spells from “The Tempest” [US Premiere; TCO Co-commission]