The Czech Philharmonic's Velvet Revolution Concert commemorated the anniversary of Czechoslovakia's peaceful transition to democracy in 1989. Conducted by Sir Simon Rattle and featuring mezzo-soprano Magdalena Kozena, the event celebrated democratic values and humanity. The program included Ravel's "Five Greek Folk Songs" and Bartok's "Five Hungarian Folk Songs," culminating with Mahler's Symphony No. 9 in D major a profound work often interpreted as a contemplation of life's transience.