Italy’s internationally acclaimed contemporary dance company Aterballetto comes to the Istanbul Music Festival with a triple bill created by leading choreographers of the international contemporary dance scene. This captivating program, accompanied by live performances of masterpieces by Beethoven and Brahms, as well as music by Gershwin and Jones, leaves a lasting imprint on the body, soul, and memory.

Renowned for its high production standards and flawless performances, Aterballetto has been presenting more than 150 performances each season for nearly 50 years, both across Italy and at major festivals worldwide. Going beyond the stage, the company engages with a variety of formats including public spaces and virtual reality, creating works that transcend social and cultural boundaries. With an extraordinary ensemble of 16 versatile solo dancers, Aterballetto continuously redefines the notions of virtuosity and beauty.

The award-winning French choreographer Angelin Preljocaj, whose works are present in the repertoires of nearly all major companies, explores the expressive power of dance in Reconciliatio (Reconciliation), a lyrical and impressionistic duet set to Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata. The piece delves into hidden meanings and unseen truths within our world. The bold and original vision of Canadian choreographer Crystal Pite, which has inspired an entire generation of dance artists, is reflected in Solo Echo, a deeply sensitive yet striking work based on Brahms’ cello sonatas and Mark Strand’s poem Lines for Winter, exploring themes of loss and acceptance.

The evening concludes with the energetic and playful Rhapsody in Blue, opening the door to a world full of surprises where anything is possible. Choreographed by the duo Iratxe Ansa and Igor Bacovich, who have been developing their own artistic language since 2013, this final piece set to Gershwin’s iconic composition showcases the technical brilliance and expressive strength of Aterballetto’s 16 dancers.

Featuring powerful interpretations of Beethoven and Brahms sonatas by two of Türkiye’s rising talents — Dorukhan Doruk, principal solo cellist of the Düsseldorf Tonhalle Orchestra, and Korkmaz Can Sağlam, winner of the 2022 International Vendome Piano Competition — this program transforms into a true celebration of music and dance. We strongly recommend not missing this extraordinary experience.