Kirill Petrenko and the Berlin Phil demonstrate their world-class status at the BBC Proms

Kirill Petrenko conducts the Berliner Philharmoniker
© Berliner Philharmoniker/Lena Laine

Kirill Petrenko

Berliner Philharmoniker

6.30pm, Wednesday 2 September 2026
BBC Proms
Royal Albert Hall, London

★★★★★

Elgar, Sir Edward (1857-1934): Variations on an Original Theme for Orchestra, Op. 36, 'Enigma'

Tchaikovsky, Pyotr Ilyich (1840-1893): Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36

Kirill Petrenko conducts the Berliner Philharmoniker
© Berliner Philharmoniker/Lena Laine

'It would take something special to stand out, yet stand out this did'.

'It’s the level of commitment to excellence that stood ou't.

'As for the force of nature that is Kirill Petrenko, he was certainly not going through the motions... Constantly wired and alert...'

Elgar:

'...tempi were quick, Petrenko avoiding the overindulgence which can be born of familiarity'.

Tchaikovsky:

'...this was a thrilling rendition, and the thrashed chords followed by a long general pause in which the whole hall held its breath, was followed by an electrifying finish'. 

Read my full review on Bachtrack here.

Kirill Petrenko & the Berliner Philharmoniker
© Nick Boston