Before Holst’s classic portrayal of the solar system, we will hear Manu Martin’s Cosmic Rhapsody, based on a narrative created by Susan Lim and Christina Teenz Tan. In the piece, the quest for solutions to Earth's environmental crisis intertwines with elements of suspense, drama, romance, intrigue, and scientific exploration. 

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Holst, Gershwin and Martin with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Barbican Centre

The mystic, the magician and the messenger - a parade of heavenly bodies demonstrate their powers as conductor Robert Ziegler leads the Orchestra in an adventure through space and time with Holst’s mighty symphonic suite, The Planets. Beforehand, Manu Martin’s Cosmic Rhapsody inspires child-like wonder in nature and science, and pianist Jean Yves-Thibaudet plays Gershwin irresistible I Got Rhythm Variations.

Holst, Gershwin and Martin

After more than four years under fire, it’s extraordinary that the Ukrainian National Philharmonic Orchestra continue to give wonderful concerts. They’re sure to get a great reception when they visit Usher Hall with a packed programme of Classical elegance, Romantic passion and 21st -century fantasy.

Ukrainian National Philharmonic Orchestra

Usher Hall

This welcome visit by the heroic Ukrainian National Philharmonic Orchestra, under their fellow countryman, conductor Theodore Kuchar, begins exuberantly with three of Brahms’ lively Hungarian Dances. There’s an elegant contrast as popular British pianist Mark Bebbington performs Mozart’s best-loved Piano Concerto No.21, whose ethereally beautiful slow movement acquired the nickname, the ‘dream andante’.

Perth Concert Hall

Something of Beethoven’s unique energy and free-spirited individualism resonates with these Ukrainian musicians, who bring a spectacular programme of music inspired by dance.

We’re delighted to feature in our season one of the most highly regarded Ukrainian orchestras, the Ukrainian National Philharmonic Orchestra, in a performance of Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony – a work brimming with exultant highs and hedonistic abandon.

We begin with Brahms in dance mode, followed by one of Mozart’s most elegant and joyful concertos, known to many as ‘Elvira Madigan’ due to the slow movement’s considerable contribution to the soundtrack of that film.

Manu Martin

Events

Upcoming events

Feb 27, 2027

Ukrainian National Philharmonic Orchestra · Usher Hall

Feb 28, 2027

Ukrainian National Philharmonic Orchestra · Perth Theatre and Concert Hall

Mar 5, 2027

Ukrainian National Philharmonic Orchestra · Cadogan Hall

Past events

May 5, 2025

Holst, Gershwin and Martin with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra · Barbican Centre

May 5, 2025

Holst, Gershwin and Martin · Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

About

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