Beethoven Weekender

Young composers and performers get their teeth into Beethoven, offering a variety of responses to classic Beethoven repertoire, including a radical reimagining of his Pastoral Symphony set amidst the lush greenery of the Barbican Conservatory. Some are celebratory, others anarchic, but all salute a composer who continues to inspire today’s young creatives.

We host DHL and Beethoven-Haus Bonn’s fascinating touring exhibition BTHVN, displaying personal objects up close – including the composer’s own violin, ear trumpet and sketch books – as well as Andy Warhol’s famous Beethoven screenprint; a personal tribute from one genius to another.

The animated icon of 70s kids’ TV Ludwig – a surreal, mischievous, Beethoven-playing ovoid – returns for a new generation, with live soundtrack from the Guildhall School’s Electronic Music department and live narration from the voice of the original TV series, Jon Glover.

Squish Space, our sensory play area for under 5s, gets a musical makeover. Under 5s and their families can explore music through play, singing and percussion, creating new music together inspired by Beethoven’s symphonies, in inclusive creative sessions led by experienced music leaders and musicians.

Workshops will last up to 45 minutes and are split into ages under 1s, 1–2 yrs and 3–5 yrs. Entry is free on a first come first serve basis. Sign up on the door will be available 30 minutes before workshop begins. 

The world's first disabled-led national youth orchestra, the National Open Youth Orchestra gives some of the UK’s most talented young disabled musicians a progression route. It promotes musical excellence, empowering disabled and non-disabled musicians aged 11-25 to rehearse and perform together as members of a pioneering ensemble. Join them as they open their doors for this open rehearsal exploring Beethoven-inspired repertoire.

Join a panel of musicians and artists from the d/Deaf community in conversation about Beethoven’s deafness and their own personal experiences. The session includes a recording of Stephen Fry reading the Heiligenstadt Testament made specifically for the occasion and the first performance of new poems by Raymond Antrobus, author of The Perseverance and winner of the Ted Hughes Award and Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year Award 2019.

Panellists:
Raymond Antrobus poet
Lloyd Coleman musician and Associate Music Director of Paraorchestra
Siobhan Clough musician and founder member of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Resound
Paul Whittaker speaker, musician and educator
Signed by Kate Collier RSLI