“Musical composition in Cyprus is thriving,” says the Cyprus Symphony Orchestra in anticipation of an upcoming concert, “thanks to a bursting array of Cypriot composers bringing a fresh, imaginative perspective to contemporary musical creation on the island. Under the baton of the rising Cypriot conductor Kyriaki Kountouri, Cyprophonia 3 will offer audiences a glimpse into the country’s vibrant musical creation, highlighting the works of four Cypriot composers.”

Pallas Theatre in old Nicosia will fill with piano sounds on February 13, presenting the world premiere of Savvas Savva’s Concerto for piano no. 3 which was commissioned by the CySO Foundation. To mark this occasion, talented Cypriot pianist Rami Sadieddine will be the soloist of the night – an artist who regularly champions contemporary works.

The audience will also have the opportunity to hear the world premieres of Physeos Kelados by George Hadjimarkou and Coastal Land by Nicos Vichas, as well as Phanos Dymiotis’ Divertimento. “In these works,” adds the orchestra, “one may appreciate the blending of the classical tradition with modernity and contemporary techniques in unique and compelling ways, while in two of them nature is the source of inspiration.”

Rounding off the concert are Béla Bartók’s Romanian Folk Dances, and Arodafnousa by Alkis Baltas, paying tribute to folk music traditions of Eastern Europe and Cyprus, respectively.

Commenting on his concerto, Savva says: “It is my joy and honour to collaborate once more with the CySO and my dear Rami Sarieddine. I composed the concerto for piano, strings and percussion no. 3 bearing in mind the capabilities of both the orchestra and the pianist. Rami recently gave a magnificent performance of one of my piano pieces (Etude).

“This piano concerto consists of three movements. Only the first two will be performed. My general aim was to showcase the possibilities of both the piano and the orchestra with the use of intense dialogues and monologues between them.”

Cyprophonia 3

Cypriot compositions in concert. February 13. Pallas Theatre, Limassol. 8.30pm. www.cyso.org.cy