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The Miraculous Mandarin

London Symphony Orchestra/François-Xavier Roth

,Barbican Hall
Alisa Weilerstein

Two works written in the same year yet poles apart in style – in François-Xavier Roth’s words, ‘the post-Romanticism of Elgar combined with Bartók’s scary, strange, erotic, disturbing work’.

Elgar’s Cello Concerto was premiered by cellist Felix Salmond and the London Symphony Orchestra in 1919. Written by its former Principal Conductor and included in the LSO’s first concert given after the end of World War I, the piece had a somewhat difficult birth but has since become a firm favourite. Bartók’s pantomime ballet caused a scandal at its first performance in Germany because of its gruesome details and was subsequently banned. In turns brutal, frenetic, intense and dream-like, the music is some of his most experimental.

The programme opens with a world premiere of a new work by Panufnik Composer Sophya Polevaya. ‘We are so proud of these young composers,’ says Roth. ‘We cheer them and we try to help them create the most amazing music for a symphony orchestra.’

Tagged with: Classical music LSO 2019–20 London Symphony Orchestra 2019-20 Multibuy More...

Duration to be confirmed closer to the event. It includes a 20 minute interval.

Programme

  • Sophya Polevya   Spellbound Tableaux *
  • Elgar   Cello Concerto
  • Bartók   The Miraculous Mandarin

*Commissioned through the Panufnik Composers Scheme, generously supported by Lady Hamlyn and The Helen Hamlyn Trust

Performers

  • François-Xavier Roth   conductor
  • Alisa Weilerstein   cello
  • London Symphony Chorus  
  • Simon Halsey   chorus director
  • London Symphony Orchestra  

Barbican Hall

Location
The Barbican Hall is located within the main Barbican building. Head to Level G and follow the signs to find your seating level. 

Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
​​​​​​​The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.