Author: Noriko Tsuzaki

Written between the two Wars, Ireland’s These Things Shall be is a powerful expression of humanistic and enlightenment values, a faith in the agency of individuals and a pacifist worldview.

Ian Venables’ song cycle explores themes of love and sexuality through the poetry of the 19th and early 20th centuries. “Although the cycle’s underlying narrative portrays the love of man for man, I wanted to end the work with a celebration of the universality of love and especially the deep love that is found in a long-lasting relationship. This is a love that transcends sexual categories and is at the heart of a humane world where gay people no longer need to hide in ‘the shadows.’

Elgar’s Second Symphony is one of his most powerful and personal works, a musical portrait of a man and a civilisation standing at a turning point in history.

An hour-long concert full of beautiful music. These relaxed performances are particularly suited to those living with dementia and other similar health conditions, adults and children with additional learning needs, their carers and anybody who wishes to experience classical music in a relaxed and informal environment.

Perhaps no other orchestra has done so much to champion the incredible tradition of British music for strings as the legendary English String Orchestra, whose recordings carry the music of England from Elgar to today to listeners worldwide. William Walton was perhaps the true heir of Elgar’s legacy, and his Sonata for Strings is one of the highest peaks in the string orchestra literature. The programme opens with a set of short pieces which showcase Elgar’s genius for the miniature and continues with works showcasing two of today’s most engaging and exciting composers, Peter Fribbins and Ian Venables. Rosalind Ventris is the featured soloist.