Cleveland Orchestra Delivers Captivating Performances with Rouvali and Gabetta

The renowned symphony orchestra showcased its versatility with works by Shostakovich and Schubert.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:19pm

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An abstract close-up photograph of the shimmering, textured strings of a cello, captured in dramatic studio lighting to evoke a sense of high-end glamour and artistry.The Cleveland Orchestra's captivating performances highlighted the virtuosity of guest soloist Sol Gabetta and the ensemble's technical mastery.Cleveland Today

The Cleveland Orchestra, led by Finnish guest conductor Santtu-Matias Rouvali, delivered engrossing performances of works by Dmitri Shostakovich and Franz Schubert on April 9 at Severance Music Center. Argentine cellist Sol Gabetta was the featured soloist in Shostakovich's Second Cello Concerto, delivering a vibrant and energetic interpretation. Schubert's Ninth Symphony, known for its "heavenly length" and demanding wind and string parts, was brought to life by the orchestra under Rouvali's skilled direction.

Why it matters

The concert showcased the Cleveland Orchestra's versatility and artistry, with the Shostakovich concerto highlighting the talents of guest soloist Gabetta and the Schubert symphony demonstrating the ensemble's ability to tackle a challenging, lengthy work. The performances were well-received by a sizable audience, including many students, highlighting the orchestra's commitment to engaging the local community.

The details

Shostakovich's Second Cello Concerto featured a range of emotional content, from the yearning introduction by the solo cello to the sarcastic dance with bass drum. Gabetta played with a vibrant tone and impressive endurance throughout the 30-minute work. Rouvali expertly guided the orchestra, ensuring tight coordination. In the Schubert symphony, Rouvali found ways to keep the hour-long work thrilling, with subtle tempo changes, dynamic contrasts, and standout solos from the orchestra's principal musicians.

  • The April 9 program will be repeated on Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11 at 7:30 pm.

The players

Santtu-Matias Rouvali

The Finnish guest conductor who led the Cleveland Orchestra in the performances.

Sol Gabetta

The Argentine cellist who was the featured soloist in Shostakovich's Second Cello Concerto.

The Cleveland Orchestra

The renowned symphony orchestra based in Cleveland, Ohio.

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What they’re saying

“No one could possibly have gone home unhappy.”

— Daniel Hathaway, Founder and editor of ClevelandClassical.com

What’s next

Tickets are available online for the remaining performances on April 10 and 11.

The takeaway

The concert demonstrated the Cleveland Orchestra's versatility and commitment to engaging the local community, with captivating performances of challenging works by Shostakovich and Schubert that were well-received by the audience.