Concert

The ‘Symphonies’ in Stravinsky’s work of 1920 refer to instrument groups playing together in various combinations, rather than anything symphonic in structure. Scored for the wind and brass sections of a symphony orchestra, the work comprises a series of boldly contrasting sections, each with a characteristic motif, timbre, tempo or rhythm, leading to a chorale dedicated to the memory of Debussy. Ever uncompromising, Stravinsky stated that the work was not meant ‘to please an audience or rouse its passions’.

Doreen Carwithen (b 1922) was an accomplished pianist and also studied composition with William Alwyn, whom she later married. In 1946 she was the first recipient of a J Arthur Rank film scholarship, enabling her to establish a career as a full-time composer. Her concerto for piano and strings (1948) contains vigorous and brilliant piano writing over a sensitive string accompaniment. We are delighted to welcome back pianist Juanjo Blázquez as our soloist for this concert.

Originally intended as ballet music, Rachmaninov’s Symphonic Dances are definitely more ‘symphony’ than ‘dance’. With only fleeting nods to evolving compositional trends, this ever popular work, Rachmaninov’s last, is richly scored and full of his characteristic lush harmonies and irresistible melodies.

Ticket Information

Admission: £20 (adults), £10 (students), £6 (under 14)