The evening opens with the Russian composer’s brilliant and beloved First Piano Concerto, premiered in Boston in 1875. Rubinstein, who harshly criticized Tchaikovsky for the piece’s incredible difficulty, ultimately began one of its best interpreters. Superstar pianist Lang Lang takes on the challenge, performing the monumental concerto with his natural charisma. Next comes Act 2 from The Nutcracker, light and brilliant, with its succession of picturesque dances that give an enchanting quality to the second half of the evening.