The Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra Performs with One of the Greatest Violinists of Our Time

Dmitry Sitkovetsky is one of the most prominent figures in today’s string music scene. With his own arrangement of Bach’s Goldberg Variations for violin and string orchestra, he brings a true musical gem to Budapest and Szeged.

“Years ago, I had the chance to work with Dmitry, and it remains a cherished memory. The orchestra, in its current formation, first met him last year during a joint performance abroad,” says violinist Péter Tfirst, concertmaster of the Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra. “Playing together with one of the greatest violinists of our time on several occasions is a tremendous honour and deeply uplifting. I had long been intrigued by his musical solutions and ideas for arrangements. And now, here he is, bringing us one of his most celebrated works—acclaimed worldwide, and now being performed for the first time before a Hungarian audience. I look forward to this exciting shared artistic journey with great enthusiasm and curiosity.”

Sitkovetsky nurtured the idea of arranging Bach’s legendary variation cycle for many years. He describes the creative phase as one of the most fulfilling periods of his life.
“Bach’s music is endlessly inspiring for me. Even in my own interpretations, I keep discovering new dimensions. You can never fully know Bach—he always has more to give. And this concert will be no exception,” Sitkovetsky remarks.

Recognised among the world’s foremost classical ensembles, the Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra is also known for its extraordinary artistic partnerships. Acclaimed cellist István Várdai, who leads the ensemble as its artistic director alongside his flourishing solo career, has long been a key figure in international chamber music. Várdai has followed the musical journey of the Egyptian-Hungarian Abouzahra siblings from the very beginning. The trio rose to fame through the talent show Virtuózok, quickly becoming audience favourites. Today, in addition to their distinguished academic training, they are active participants in the international concert scene.