After the director Herbert Fritsch captivated audiences with an extravagant symphony concert in 2024, this guest concept is now becoming a favourite tradition at the Komische Oper Berlin. This time, the spotlight falls on the charismatic actor Ulrich Matthes, who steps in as concert curator. Under the theme of ‘boldly stepping forth’, he launches the new year with a dazzling programme while offering personal insights into his favourite musical works. Here, the bright optimism of Mozart’s ‘Linz Symphony’ (1st movement) meets the reverent Adagio from Schumann’s Second Symphony. The jazz-infused energy of Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F major meets with Bernstein’s playful Symphonic Dances from West Side Story. And after his 2014 performance as a narrator at a symphony concert with the Komische Oper—who knows? This time, Ulrich Matthes just might take the leap into song...