Stars with Sinfonietta: Rafael Payare

The Sinfonietta Cracovia is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Since its foundation, the orchestra has worked with acclaimed musicians including Antoni Wit, Lorin Maazel, Valery Gergiev, Gidon Kremer, Gábor Boldoczki, Xavier de Maistre and Mischa Maisky. And it celebrates its anniversary in fine company: the concert held as part of the cycle Stars with Sinfonietta (18 September, ICE Kraków) is conducted by Rafael Payare.

The Venezuelan maestro started off as assistant of Gustavo Dudamel and Claudio Abbado, and launched his international career following his victory in the prestigious Malko Competition in Copenhagen in 2012. He continues to confirm his class with his ongoing collaborations with orchestras from the UK, the US, France, Denmark and Sweden. He has been serving as honorary guest conductor of Sinfonietta Cracovia since 2017. Under his baton the ensemble performs a fascinating collection of 20th century works: Penderecki’s Serenade for string orchestra, Richard Strauss’ Metamorphosis and Schönberg’s symphonic poem Verklärte Nacht.