Zubin Mehta all set to perform

The stage is set for internationally-renowned conductor Zubin Mehta's maiden performance in Kashmir tomorrow as authorities have beefed up the security around the venue following threats by little-known militant outfits.

Mehta arrived here this evening, along with his wife, for conducting the Munich-based Bavarian State Orchestra at Ehsaas-e-Kashmir (Feel of Kashmir), organised here by German Embassy in New Delhi.

The 80-strong contingent of the Orchestra arrived a few hours ahead of their conductor, who will be playing a composition of Kashmiri musician Abhay Rustum Sopori, besides compositions of some famous 19th century European musicians.

Mehta is scheduled to play the composition of Ludwig van Beethoven, the 18th century composer considered as crucial figure in the transition between the Classical and Romantic eras in Western art music.

He will also play compositions of Franz Joseph Haydn, the Austrian composer who is often called the "Father of the Symphony" and "Father of the String Quartet", and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, the 19th Century Russian composer whose works included symphonies, concertos, operas, ballets, and chamber music.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited the venue of the concert today to review the arrangements.