This semi-staged concert is based on our preconceptions of mental illness, with each piece having a connection to the psychology of the mind – centred around Peter Maxwell Davies’ harrowing depiction of the ‘madness’ of King George III.

Maxwell Davies was a key member of the Manchester School of Composers, who reshaped the landscape of British music in the late 20th century. 8 Songs for a Mad King is a melodrama with a libretto based on the real-life observations of King George III, presenting an extravagant and disturbing portrayal of his condition. 

Vocalising weirdly as he bemoans his fate, trying to teach his instrumentalist-birds to sing – our musicians becoming projections from within his own mind.

Manchester Camerata: 8 Songs for a Mad King

The Stoller Hall

Scottish violinist Nicola Benedetti makes her UMS debut with an ensemble featuring guitar, accordion, and cello performing arrangements of popular classical works. As a sought-after and influential musician and the Director of the Edinburgh International Festival, Benedetti is an unabashed advocate for Western classical music, popularizing the genre with a new generation and captivating audiences with her sumptuous tone and top-notch playing.

EPSG:4326

Nicola Benedetti, violin

University of Michigan

Joined by leading musicians, the Kanneh-Masons share with you some of their favourite chamber works including Schubert’s much-loved “Trout” quintet and Isata Kanneh-Mason’s beautiful love song to Wales, Hiraeth. In the second half, the family reprises its 2021 BBC Proms performance of Camille Saint-Saëns’ whimsical much-loved suite, Carnival of the Animals, narrated by award-winning author Michael Morpurgo.

The Kanneh-Masons and Friends

Barbican Centre

When the RSNO comes to play, everyone is welcome! In our special lunchtime concert, join presenter Gillian Moore as she introduces young and old alike to the wonders of classical music with Scotland’s National Orchestra.

RSNO Plays Prokofiev

St Mary's RC Church

Ayr Town Hall

Featuring beautiful Celtic melodies along with some humor on Saint Patrick’s Day.

Maxwell Davies

Events

Past events

Jun 5, 2026

Manchester Camerata: 8 Songs for a Mad King · The Stoller Hall

Feb 8, 2026

Nicola Benedetti, violin · University Musical Society

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