The French orchestra Les Siecles is spoken of exclusively in superlatives. Critics, but above all listeners, highly appreciate the perfect ensemble playing of all sections of the orchestra, the clear range of dynamic differences, and rhythmic precision. Similarly, the conductor and founder of the ensemble, the charismatic François-Xavier Roth, is also highly regarded for his energetic musicality, clear gestures, and understanding of the genre he interprets. They came to Prague for the Prague Spring 2022 festival with pianist Bertrand Chamaya and a purely French repertoire. They performed works by César Franck and Claude Debussy and completely captivated the audience in the Dvořák Hall of the Rudolfinum. Les Siecles is sure to win you over as well.

The evocative music of Claude Debussy has been described as the foundation of modern music. But how did the composer come to develop his unique style? On this video, maestro Francois-Xavier Roth and the London Symphony Orchestra present the UK premiere of a previously lost work by the young Debussy, alongside some of his earliest inspirations. Debussy's newly discovered Premiére Suite gives a rare insight into the mind of a young composer on the cusp of innovation. It's a work filled with Romantic and Eastern influences and glimpses of the unexpected harmonies that came to define Debussy's work. Paired alongside the composer's role models - from Wagner's powerful intertwining motifs, the abundant Spanish influences in Lalo's rarely-heard Cello Concerto performed here by Edgar Moreau, and Massenet's majestic Le Cid - Francois-Xavier Roth gives a fresh perspective on the much-loved composer.

Under the baton of its founder François-Xavier Roth, the Les Siècles orchestra performs a program entirely devoted to Igor Stravinsky with The Firebird, Petrushka, and The Rite of Spring. For this concert at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, the musicians play on period instruments that reproduce as faithfully as possible the original sound of these three great ballets.