Join BBC Radio 3 for a FREE lunchtime invitation concert with the Ulster Orchestra, shining a spotlight on 20th century English composers on 22 May 2025 at Belfast's Ulster Hall.

The programme opens with a short overture by John Foulds, who was born in Manchester in 1880 – the son of a bassoonist in the Hallé Orchestra. A skilled and adventurous composer, his music largely fell out of favour after his death in 1939. However, it enjoyed a revival in the 1980s, leading to a performance of his Three Mantras at the BBC Proms in 1998. His Overture to Le Carbaret was composed in 1921 for a play about the 19th century French mime artiste, Jean-Gaspard Deburau. Foulds reworked it in 1934 and it’s light-hearted style, full of verve and swagger, is a hit with audiences.

EPSG:4326

Shifting the Dial – BBC Radio 3 Invitation Concert

Ulster Hall Belfast

### Event Description: Holst's The Planets at Fairfield Halls - Kensington Symphony Orchestra

**Date:** Saturday, 29 March 2025  
**Time:** 7:30 PM  
**Venue:** Fairfield Halls

Join the Kensington Symphony Orchestra (KSO) for an enchanting evening at Fairfield Halls as they perform a captivating programme featuring music by John Foulds and Gustav Holst. Under the baton of esteemed conductor Russell Keable, the orchestra will present Foulds' "April-England" and Holst's iconic suite, "The Planets."

KSO, formed in 1956 and recognized as one of the finest non-professional orchestras in the UK, promises a performance that rivals many professional ensembles. This concert is a testament to their commitment to providing high-level musical experiences.

**Programme Highlights:**
- Foulds: April-England
- Holst: The Planets

Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of the best amateur orchestras in the country, as praised by Classical Music Magazine and The Sunday Telegraph. Secure your tickets for an unforgettable night of classical music.

Holst’s The Planets at Fairfield Halls

Fairfield Halls

BBC Radio 3’s Friday Night is Music Night and the BBC Concert Orchestra are off to France. Expect Gallic chic, champagne melodies and southern sun– all without leaving Alexandra Palace Theatre!

John Foulds

Events

Upcoming events

Dec 31, 2025 - Jan 14, 2026

New Year's Eve concert · Nordwestdeutsche Philharmonie

Past events

May 22, 2025

Shifting the Dial – BBC Radio 3 Invitation Concert · Ulster Orchestra

Mar 29, 2025

Holst’s The Planets at Fairfield Halls · Kensington Symphony

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