Nicola Benedetti

Philharmonia Orchestra

Child Policy: This performance is not suitable for children under six years old. Children aged 16 and under must be accompanied by a caregiver who attends the event with the child. Conductor --- Karl-Heinz Steffens Cello --- Anastasia Kobekina Grieg --- Peer Gynt: Suite No.1 Shostakovich --- Cello Concerto No.1 Haydn --- Symphony No.97 Beginning with the clean tranquillity of Morning, Grieg's first suite from his music to the play Peer Gynt ends in its hero's escape from the terrifying Mountain King. Shostakovich's darkly glittering concerto is a searching insight into the soul of the cello and into the soul of its composer. It's played by the blazing Russian cellist Anastasia Kobekina, making her New Zealand debut. Like all Haydn's late symphonies, his 97th is joyful, energetic, and never less than life-affirming.

Auckland Philharmonia: Haydn & Shostakovich

Auckland Town Hall

Join us for a captivating family concert at the Edinburgh International Festival, featuring the Philharmonia in a special performance that promises to enchant audiences of all ages. This much-anticipated event will take place at Usher Hall, Edinburgh, on Sunday, 25 August 2024, at 3pm.

Under the baton of a soon-to-be-announced conductor, with Lucy Drever as the presenter and the renowned Nicola Benedetti gracing the stage with her violin, the concert will showcase a selection of beloved classics, including the highlight of the programme, "The Lark Ascending" by Vaughan Williams. This piece, inspired by the serene and resilient song of the skylark amidst the onset of World War I, features a soaring violin solo that has captured hearts worldwide, even being voted the nation’s favourite Desert Island Discs track.

This relaxed, family-friendly performance is a collaboration with the Philharmonia, with Festival Director Nicola Benedetti leading as the solo violinist, offering an unforgettable experience of Williams’s masterpiece.

**Need to Know:**
- **Prices & Discounts:** Tickets start from £10. D/deaf, disabled, neurodivergent people, and under 18s enjoy a 50% concession discount. A limited number of £10 Affordable Tickets are available for those in need, accessible with the promo code INVITED at checkout. Arts workers and under 30s are eligible for a 30% concession discount, with proof of eligibility possibly required at venues.
- **Running Time:** The concert will last approximately 50 minutes, presented without an interval.
- **Box Office:** Tickets can be purchased through the Edinburgh International Festival box office at 131 473 2000.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of live classical music in a setting that welcomes music lovers of all ages. Book your tickets now and be part of a memorable musical journey with the Philharmonia at the Edinburgh International Festival.

Edinburgh International Festival: Family Concert