Following its participation in the unveiling of the Venizelos Station at the Thessaloniki Metro on Friday, the Thessaloniki State Symphonic Orchestra (TSSO) concluded a celebratory two-day event on Saturday with the concert 'Urban,' marking the start of the metro system in our city. The program featured works by Copland, Adams, Villa-Lobos, Gershwin, and Bernstein, all reflecting various aspects of urban life, mentality, and culture. The beloved French conductor Martin Lebel led TSSO, with Simon Trpčeski, one of the world's most acclaimed pianists, as the soloist. Trpčeski once again captivated the audience, not only with his incredible talent but also with his engaging personality, creating a direct connection with the audience, much like the conductor.
After a stunning performance of 'Rhapsody in Blue,' Simon Trpčeski addressed the audience in both English and Greek. He expressed his honour as an artist from neighbouring North Macedonia to be part of this significant moment for the city. Meanwhile, the orchestra began playing the beautiful jazz piece 'Take Five' by Paul Desmond and Dave Brubeck, which Simon dedicated to the audience in the spirit of friendship and mutual understanding for a bright future between the two countries. He then took his place at the piano, improvising on this famous melody.
Before the program continued with the Symphonic Dances from 'West Side Story,' the concertmaster Antonis Sousamoglou took the microphone to announce a special moment for the TSSO family. It was the last concert before the retirement of their "esteemed and beloved" colleague, first clarinettist Kosmas Papadopoulos. Papadopoulos, described as a "great musician who served music both as a solo clarinettist at TSSO and as one of the country's top clarinet teachers, with numerous students now enriching Greek orchestras," received a bouquet from his colleagues and thanked them emotionally.
After the conclusion of the Symphonic Dances from 'West Side Story,' the orchestra received a standing ovation. Conductor Martin Lebel had one more surprise for the 755 music lovers who braved the weather to spend their Saturday evening with TSSO. He offered an encore with Eduard Strauss' fast polka "Bahn frei!" which required audience participation by clapping to the rhythm and intensity set by the conductor. The enthusiastic participation proved how much everyone enjoyed the evening.
The concert was honoured by the presence of the Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, who, in her statements to the ERT3 camera before entering the hall, mentioned the presence at the official opening of the Venizelos Station of "our orchestra," as she affectionately called it, "which we love and support very much and we are happy because it has truly spread its wings and is doing exceptionally well."
