Join us for an enchanting evening of contemporary music at the Royal Festival Hall on Sunday, 6th October 2024, at 6pm, featuring the captivating works of Kaija Saariaho and Hans Abrahamsen. This special "Music of Today" concert, part of the Nordic Soundscapes series, is a celebration of the leading Nordic composers of recent decades, offering a unique opportunity to experience the compelling compositions of Saariaho and Abrahamsen, free of charge, though a ticket is required.

Under the baton of Chloe Rooke, making her Philharmonia debut, and featuring the exquisite soprano Ella Taylor, acclaimed for their "gorgeous voice" by BBC Music Magazine, the evening promises to be a memorable one. The programme includes Saariaho's "Semafor," one of her last pieces, inspired by the playful sculptures of Finnish artist Ernst Mether-Borgström, and Abrahamsen's "Two Inger Christensen Songs," crystalline settings of poems by the renowned Danish poet, capturing a timeless connection with the natural world.

This concert not only showcases the talents of emerging artists alongside established musicians but also marks a welcome return for Ella Taylor, who first performed with us in an unconventional venue, a multi-storey car park in Peckham. Now, they grace the stage with a small ensemble of Philharmonia players for an evening that promises to be as innovative as it is inspiring.

Priority booking is available for Friends of the Philharmonia, with general booking opening at 10am on Tuesday, 23rd April. Secure your seat for this free event and immerse yourself in the modern sounds of the Nordic landscape. For more information and to book your tickets, contact the Philharmonia Box Office at 0800 652 6717, Monday to Friday, 10am – 5pm. Don't miss this early evening concert, a perfect prelude to the broader explorations of Nordic Soundscapes.

Music of Today: Kaija Saariaho and Hans Abrahamsen

Royal Festival Hall

András Schiff’s devoted fans will turn out for whatever he decides to play or conduct, and this evening they’re in for not one treat but three. Schiff performs two of the finest concertos of the late 1700s. Haydn’s, the epitome of Classical elegance and expression, features a lively Hungarian-style finale. Mozart’s explores deeper emotional territory, the lullaby-like melody of its slow movement leading to a masterly set of variations. Schiff directs the orchestra from the keyboard, as Mozart and Haydn themselves would have done.

András Schiff: Haydn, Schubert and Mozart

Join the Philharmonia Chamber Players for an enchanting evening of music featuring works by Salonen and Nielsen. This special performance is part of the Philharmonia's Nordic Soundscapes series, showcasing the rich musical heritage of the Nordic region.

**Event Details:**
- **Date:** Thursday, 24 October 2024
- **Time:** 6:00 PM
- **Venue:** Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX
- **Admission:** Free, ticket required

**Program Highlights:**
- **Salonen Memoria:** A poignant piece by Esa-Pekka Salonen, reflecting on memories and the legacy of Luciano Berio. This work is a testament to Salonen's deep musical insights and his connection to the Nordic soundscape.
- **Nielsen Wind Quintet:** A cornerstone of the wind quintet repertoire, Carl Nielsen's piece captures the essence of nature and the unique character of each instrument. Expect a journey through nostalgic melodies and modern harmonies, culminating in a captivating finale.

**Performers:**
The evening will feature the Philharmonia Wind Quintet, comprising five of the orchestra's outstanding musicians. Their expertise and cohesion promise to bring these compositions to life in a memorable performance.

**Special Offers:**
- **Nordic Soundscapes Pass:** Secure your seat for every London event in the series with our passes, available at £250, £150, and £75. Passholders will also receive a series magazine signed by Santtu and an invitation to drinks on the opening night.

**Additional Information:**
- **Priority Booking for Friends:** Priority booking is now open. General booking commences at 10am on Tuesday, 23 April. Join the Friends of the Philharmonia to book your tickets now.
- **Running Time:** 35 minutes
- **Recommended Age:** Suitable for ages 7 and above
- **Programme Notes:** Free printed programmes will be available at the venue.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of the Nordic landscape, performed by the world-class Philharmonia Chamber Players. Reserve your tickets today and be part of an unforgettable musical experience.

Philharmonia Chamber Players: Salonen and Nielsen

Join us for an unforgettable evening as Marin Alsop conducts Mahler’s Fifth Symphony at the Royal Festival Hall on Thursday, 24th October 2024, at 7:30 pm. This concert promises to be a profound exploration of love and beauty, featuring the talents of Marin Alsop, our Principal Guest Conductor, and the Grammy-winning mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke.

The evening will commence with Gustav Mahler's "Blumine," a tender piece originally part of his first symphony, showcasing our Principal Trumpet's softer side. Following this, Sasha Cooke will bring to life a selection of Alma Mahler's songs, orchestrated by David & Colin Matthews. These include "Die stille Stadt," "Waldseligkeit," and "Bei dir ist es traut," offering a rare opportunity to experience the expressive depth of Alma Mahler's compositions.

The highlight of the night, Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, will take you on an emotional journey from its dramatic opening trumpet fanfare to the triumphant joy of its finale. The symphony is renowned for its Adagietto, a declaration of Mahler's love for his future wife, Alma, and a piece of pure, heart-wrenching beauty.

Tickets are priced between £15 and £75, with priority booking available for Friends of the Philharmonia. General booking opens at 10am on Tuesday, 23rd April. This performance is expected to run for approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, including an interval, and is recommended for audiences from the age of 7.

Free printed programmes will be available at the venue, and digital programme notes will be accessible a week before the event. For more information or to book your tickets, please contact the Philharmonia Box Office at 0800 652 6717, Monday to Friday, 10am – 5pm.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the emotional depth and beauty of Mahler’s Fifth Symphony under the baton of Marin Alsop, accompanied by the exceptional Sasha Cooke.

Marin Alsop conducts Mahler's Fifth Symphony

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Join us for an enlightening discussion at the "Notes on Nature 2: The Forest Philharmonia" event, part of the Nordic Soundscapes series. This unique gathering will take place in the Level 5 Function Room at the Royal Festival Hall on Sunday, 27 October 2024, starting at 12.30pm. Admission is free, but tickets are required to ensure your spot at this thought-provoking session.

The event will feature Vidya Patel and Annika Lindskog as hosts. Vidya Patel, a renowned dancer and choreographer, alongside Annika Lindskog, a lecturer in Nordic landscape and culture, will lead a compelling discussion on the delicate balance between protecting the beauty of our forests and ensuring the flourishing of human communities that depend on them. This session is a part of our broader Nordic Soundscapes series, which explores the intersection of nature, culture, and music.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in the debate, share their views, and enjoy a cozy atmosphere with coffee and cinnamon buns. This event promises to be a memorable experience, offering insights into how we can harmonize environmental conservation with human development.

Priority booking is available for Friends of the Philharmonia, with general booking opening at 10am on Tuesday, 23 April. Don't miss your chance to be part of this important conversation. Secure your tickets now and join us in exploring the future of our forests and communities.

Notes on Nature 2: The Forest

Southbank Centre

Join us for an evening of profound musical reflection with "The Bach Choir: Britten’s War Requiem" at Westminster Cathedral on Wednesday, 30 October 2024, at 7:30 pm. This concert promises to be a moving tribute to peace and reconciliation, featuring Benjamin Britten's powerful War Requiem, a piece composed in memory of the new Coventry Cathedral and in honor of all those affected by the atrocities of war.

Under the baton of conductor David Hill, the performance will showcase the exceptional talents of soprano Elizabeth Watts, tenor Andrew Staples, and baritone Mark Stone. They will be joined by the London Youth Choirs LYC Junior Boys & LYC Junior Girls, and the illustrious Bach Choir, bringing to life Britten's haunting score and the poignant poetry of Wilfred Owen, a soldier and poet who documented the harrowing realities of war and was tragically killed in action in 1918.

Britten's War Requiem, with its interweaving of the traditional Latin Requiem Mass and Owen's evocative war poetry, creates a stark contrast that underscores the futility and devastation of war. The piece is renowned for its challenging compositions, including the use of the tritone interval, known as "The Devil’s Interval," to evoke a sense of unresolved conflict and longing for peace.

Tickets are priced between £10 and £74, with group booking discounts available. The performance will run for approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes without an interval and is recommended for audiences aged 7 and above.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience a landmark work of 20th-century music that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, reminding us of the enduring impact of war and the universal yearning for peace. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable evening with The Bach Choir and Philharmonia at Westminster Cathedral.

The Bach Choir: Britten’s War Requiem

Westminster Cathedral

Join us at the Royal Festival Hall for an unforgettable evening of classical music with the "Santtu and Nemanja Radulović Philharmonia" concert on Thursday, 31 October 2024, at 7:30 pm. Experience the magic of live performance as conductor Santtu-Matias Rouvali and violinist Nemanja Radulović take the stage to present a captivating program featuring Khachaturian's Three Pieces from the ballet 'Gayaneh', the exhilarating Violin Concerto, and Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 1, "Winter Daydreams".

Nemanja Radulović, celebrated for his warmth and flair, will bring his exceptional virtuosity to Khachaturian’s Violin Concerto, a piece that showcases his ability to blend folk influences with soulful melodies and a fiery finale. Santtu-Matias Rouvali, known for his deep connection with Tchaikovsky's music, will guide the audience through the evocative landscapes of "Winter Daydreams", a symphony that captures the essence of youthful indulgence and romantic reverie.

The concert will also feature the dynamic and colorful movements from Khachaturian's ballet 'Gayaneh', including the famous Sabre Dance, promising an evening filled with vibrant melodies and spectacular performances.

Tickets are priced between £15 and £75, with priority booking available for Friends of the Philharmonia. General booking opens at 10am on Tuesday, 23 April. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the synergy of Santtu-Matias Rouvali and Nemanja Radulović with the Philharmonia Orchestra in the heart of London at the Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall.

For more information and to secure your tickets, contact the Philharmonia Box Office at 0800 652 6717, Monday to Friday, 10am – 5pm. Prepare for an evening of exquisite music that promises to be a highlight of the 2024/25 London Season.

Santtu and Nemanja Radulović Philharmonia

Join the Lodestar Trio for an unforgettable evening with the London Symphony Orchestra at LSO St Luke's on Tuesday, 1st October 2024, at 7:30 pm. This unique concert promises to be a genre-bending journey through the realms of Baroque and Nordic folk music, featuring an eclectic mix of compositions by Johann Sebastian Bach, Tarquinio Merula, Olav Mjelva, Max Baillie, and François Couperin.

The Lodestar Trio, comprising Max Baillie on violin, Erik Rydvall with the Swedish nyckelharpa, and Olva Mjelva on the Norwegian Hardanger fiddle, will lead you through an exhilarating performance that reimagines Bach's music alongside freewheeling folk-inflected works. This innovative ensemble, born from a cross-genre exploration, fuses folk traditions with Baroque reinvention, offering a fresh perspective on classical pieces.

The concert is set to conclude at approximately 8:30 pm, ensuring an evening packed with musical delights that will leave you inspired. Tickets are priced at £18, with a £1.50 booking fee applicable for online or phone transactions. For more information and to secure your spot at this not-to-be-missed event, please visit the Barbican website.

Produced by the Barbican, this event is a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and genres, promising an ebullient ride through the landscapes of classical and folk music. Don't miss your chance to experience the Lodestar Trio's innovative fusion of sounds in the heart of London.

Lodestar Trio

LSO St Luke's

A deep dive into the potential of the violin, expanding and enhancing the instrument through microtonality, electronics, and the sound of multiple violin

Anselm McDonnell: The Expanded Violin

Experience the awe-inspiring journey of our planet like never before with "Life on Our Planet in Concert," presented by the London Symphony Orchestra. This groundbreaking event is set to take place at the Barbican on Thursday, 17th October 2024, at 7:30 pm. 

Under the baton of conductor Anthony Gabriele, the London Symphony Orchestra will bring to life the incredible score of Netflix’s "Life on Our Planet," a Netflix Original Documentary series created by Silverback Films in association with Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Television. Narrated by Academy Award-winner Morgan Freeman, the series explores the epic story of life on Earth, from its humble beginnings to the complex ecosystems that flourish today.

This concert promises to be a natural history experience like no other, featuring highlights from the series accompanied by the live orchestral score performed by the musicians behind the original theme music. Audiences will be taken on a journey through life’s most pivotal moments, from the emergence of the first single-celled organisms to the rise of mammals and the dominance of humans, all while revisiting the reign and eventual downfall of the dinosaurs.

The performance will conclude at approximately 9:30 pm, including a 20-minute interval. Tickets are priced from £15 to £67.50, with a £4 booking fee per online or phone transaction. Tickets go on sale at 10 am on Friday, 1st March, and can be purchased through the Barbican's official website.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness the story of our planet, brought to life through the power of music and storytelling, in what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

EPSG:4326

Life on Our Planet in Concert (PG)

Barbican Centre

Pianist Alexander Gadjiev explores captivating solo works by Beethoven, Liszt, Chopin and Corigliano in this lunchtime concert.

New Generation Artists: Alexander Gadjiev

Join us at LSO St Luke’s for an interactive concert for mini music-makers!

LSO musicians retell a children’s story through music, offering younger children a chance to experience a live performance in the beautiful Jerwood Hall. Dance and sing your way through the concert as the instruments bring the tale to life.

Meet a boy and his new penguin friend as they set out together on an adventure to the South Pole!

Musical Storytelling

Experience the profound and uplifting power of Gustav Mahler's "Symphony No. 2, Resurrection" performed by the London Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Michael Tilson Thomas. This special concert, celebrating Tilson Thomas' 80th birthday, promises an unforgettable evening of music at the Barbican on Sunday, 20th October 2024, at 7 pm, with a repeat performance on Wednesday, 23rd October.

Mahler's Second Symphony, a monumental work requiring over 100 musicians, chorus, and soloists, takes the audience on an emotional journey from solemn marches to an inspirational finale, featuring moments of gentle nostalgia, disturbing visions, and the angelic beauty of a mezzo-soprano solo. This performance not only marks a significant milestone for our Conductor Laureate, Michael Tilson Thomas, but also showcases the deep connection between the LSO, MTT, and Mahler's transformative music.

Tickets are available in various price ranges, with options for discounts and special offers such as Wildcards for guaranteed entry with seat allocation on the day. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a celebration of music, legacy, and the joyous reunion of Michael Tilson Thomas with the London Symphony Orchestra.

Mahler 2, 'Resurrection'

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Ludwig van Beethoven's chamber music with the London Symphony Orchestra's Wind Ensemble at the enchanting LSO St Luke's. This special concert, part of the BBC Radio 3 Lunchtime Concert series, is scheduled for Thursday, 24th October 2024, starting at 1pm and concluding by approximately 2.05pm.

The LSO Wind Ensemble, known for their virtuoso performances, will bring to life Beethoven's Sextet in E-flat major Op. 71, Octet in E-flat major Op. 103, and Rondino in E-flat major, showcasing the composer's unbridled charm and the ensemble's exceptional talent. This concert not only promises an afternoon of exquisite music but also an opportunity to be part of a live audience for a future broadcast on BBC Radio 3.

Tickets are priced at £16, with concessions available at £14, and a special rate of £6 for under-18s. A booking fee of £1.50 per transaction applies. Attendees can also benefit from multibuy discounts, concessions for students and groups, and free companion tickets for Barbican Access Members.

Booking your tickets is easy and convenient, with options available online at lso.co.uk, by phone, or in person at the Barbican Centre with no booking fee. For those looking to save, multibuy discounts are available when booking three or more BBC Radio 3 concerts within one transaction for the 2024/25 season.

Experience the joy of Beethoven's chamber music in an intimate setting and be part of a memorable musical journey with the LSO Wind Ensemble.

Beethoven Dedications: LSO Wind Ensemble

Experience the enchantment of live music during your lunch break with the London Symphony Orchestra's Free Friday Lunchtime Concert. This delightful event is set to take place at LSO St Luke's on Friday, 25 October 2024, starting at 12.30pm and concluding by approximately 1.15pm. 

Immerse yourself in an informal and intimate concert setting, perfect for music lovers of all ages, though specifically designed for attendees over the age of 5. The concert features a talented ensemble of Guildhall School musicians, showcasing a wide array of orchestral instruments and the captivating realm of chamber music. 

Rachel Leach, the presenter for the day, will provide engaging introductions to the pieces performed, making classical music accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Additionally, the event includes a Q&A session, offering a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the music and learn directly from the performers.

Admission to this event is free, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the transformative power of music without concern for cost. However, due to the popularity of these concerts, it is recommended to arrive early to secure your spot. The venue and café open at 11.30am, with concert hall doors opening at 12pm. For groups of 8 or more, it is advisable to contact rebecca.ranson@lso.co.uk at least one week before the concert to reserve seats.

Presented by LSO Discovery, the London Symphony Orchestra's flagship education and community program, this concert is part of a broader initiative to enrich lives through music. LSO St Luke's, the venue for this event, is fully accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this musical experience in comfort.

Don't miss this opportunity to make your lunchtime uniquely musical with the London Symphony Orchestra's Free Friday Lunchtime Concert.

Free Friday Lunchtime Concert

Experience the transformative power of Beethoven's First Symphony with the London Symphony Orchestra at the Barbican on Wednesday, 30 October 2024, at 6:30 pm. This unique "Half Six Fix" concert, led by the passionate François-Xavier Roth, offers an early evening immersion into the world of classical music, designed to enrich your midweek with a 60-minute exploration of Beethoven's wit, elegance, and the revolutionary spirit that heralds his later symphonies.

François-Xavier Roth, serving both as conductor and presenter, will guide the audience through the intricacies and passion of Beethoven's music, making this event not just a concert but an educational journey into the heart of classical mastery. The performance promises to be an intimate affair, with live introductions and screens in the hall to bring you closer to the action, ensuring an engaging and immersive experience.

Tickets are available at various price points, with options for everyone to access this cultural highlight. Additionally, the event offers a range of booking discounts, including a special "Half Six Fix Season Pass" for those who wish to dive deeper into the series.

Don't miss this opportunity to kick-start your evening with the London Symphony Orchestra and François-Xavier Roth, as they bring to life the timeless beauty of Beethoven's First Symphony in the heart of London. Book your tickets now and be part of a revolutionary musical experience recommended by Classic FM.

Half Six Fix: Beethoven

Experience the fusion of classical innovation and contemporary brilliance with the London Symphony Orchestra's captivating evening featuring the works of Adámek and Beethoven. Under the baton of François-Xavier Roth, with the virtuosic Isabelle Faust on violin, this concert promises an exploration of musical dialogues across time.

Join us at the iconic Barbican on Thursday, 31 October 2024, at 7pm for a program that intertwines the playful wit of Beethoven's early symphonies with the modern, teasing imitation game of Ondřej Adámek's "Follow Me" Concerto for Violin and Orchestra. The evening will commence with Beethoven's Symphony No. 1, followed by Adámek's concerto, concluding with the elegant yet bold Symphony No. 4 by Beethoven. This performance not only showcases the LSO's versatility but also highlights the dynamic partnership between Roth and Faust, bringing fresh perspectives to both classical and contemporary compositions.

The concert will conclude at approximately 8:55 pm, including a 20-minute interval, allowing the audience to immerse themselves fully in the musical journey. Tickets are available in a range of prices to suit all, with options for further savings through various booking discounts. Whether you're a long-time classical music enthusiast or curious to experience the LSO for the first time, this evening promises to be a memorable exploration of musical mastery and innovation.

Adámek and Beethoven

### Richard Strauss's Ein Heldenleben - Kensington Symphony Orchestra

**Date:** Monday, 14 October 2024  
**Time:** 7:30 PM  
**Venue:** St John’s Smith Square

The Kensington Symphony Orchestra (KSO) is set to open its 2024/25 season with a captivating performance at St John’s Smith Square. Under the baton of conductor Russell Keable, the orchestra will present a rich and varied program featuring works by Richard Strauss, Samuel Barber, and Vítězslava Kaprálová.

**Programme:**
- **Barber:** Overture to The School for Scandal
- **Kaprálová:** Suita Rustica
- **Strauss:** Ein Heldenleben

**Highlights:**

- **Richard Strauss’s Ein Heldenleben:** This tone poem, also known as "A Hero’s Life," was composed in 1898 and is designed to illustrate the ideal of great and manly heroism. The piece includes an effusive violin solo depicting Strauss's wife Pauline and features caricatures of his adversaries in the music press. The six-section work contains over 30 quotations from Strauss's earlier compositions, including "Also sprach Zarathustra," "Till Eulenspiegel," "Don Quixote," and "Death and Transfiguration."

- **Samuel Barber’s Overture to The School for Scandal:** Composed in 1931, this was Barber’s first work for full orchestra. Written during a holiday in Italy, it reflects the spirit of Sheridan’s 18th-century comedy of manners with its energetic and fast-paced orchestral brilliance.

- **Vítězslava Kaprálová’s Suita Rustica:** Written in 1938, this three-movement work is both lyrical and exuberant, bearing the influence of Stravinsky’s "Petrushka." Kaprálová, a student of Bohuslav Martinů, composed this piece two years before her untimely death at the age of 25.

Join the Kensington Symphony Orchestra for an evening of exceptional music, showcasing the talents of one of the finest non-professional orchestras in the UK.

Richard Strauss’s Ein Heldenleben

St. John's Smith Square

Patricia Kopatchinskaja plays Shostakovich

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