March 12, 2013 — In a country in which outstanding classical music ensembles abound, Germany’s Beethoven Orchestra Bonn is among the best. Founded more than a century ago, the orchestra has become a pillar of cultural life in Bonn and the surrounding region. In addition to symphony concerts, domestic and international tours, and recording, the ensemble serves as the official orchestra of the Bonn Opera House. The orchestra, led by music director Stefan Blunier, specializes in the music of Ludwig van Beethoven. The all-Beethoven program at Penn State features the incomparable Symphony No. 5 in C minor. Canadian pianist Louis Lortie, who studied with Beethoven specialist Dieter Weber and American virtuoso Leon Fleisher, is celebrated for his interpretations of Beethoven compositions. He joins the ensemble for the Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat Major.

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