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Friday 28th March
A Caledonian Evening

Step into the spirit of Scotland with a magnificent evening of music inspired by the land of rugged landscapes and rich heritage. We're thrilled to welcome back the exceptional violinist Joo Yeon Sir. Together with the London Mozart Players, she will lead us through an evocative programme celebrating Scottish composers and pieces inspired by the Highlands and Lowlands.

Please note - Tickets for this concert are on a pre-reservation basis, no payment is required at the time of making the reservation. Friends and non-Friends are able to reserve tickets. Friends who make a reservation up to 2 months before the concert date will receive priority when seating is allocated for this concert. Priority Booking closes 28th January 2025

Thank you

 

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Programme Highlights

 

Hamish MacCunn Land of the Mountain and the Flood Overture

Opening the evening is Hamish MacCunn's stirring overture, Land of the Mountain and the Flood, a quintessentially Scottish piece that paints a vivid musical portrait of Scotland's wild beauty. A student of the Royal College of Music, MacCunn composed this work at the young age of 19, and it quickly became a national favourite. The overture's sweeping melodies and grandeur are the perfect start to a celebration of Caledonian spirit.

Max Bruch Scottish Fantasy (for violin)

This four-part Scottish Fantasy is a masterpiece of romantic violin writing, with Joo Yeon Sir bringing its lyrical, folk-inspired themes to life. Although Bruch was a German composer, he was captivated by Scotland's folklore and incorporated traditional Scottish tunes into this stunning composition. From the noble opening inspired by Auld Rob Morris to the lively reel in the final movement, each part reflects Bruch's love for Scotland's musical heritage.

Mendelssohn Symphony No. 3 'Scottish Symphony'

Known for his fascination with Scotland, Mendelssohn's travels inspired some of his most famous works. He composed this symphony during his first visit to Britain in 1829, when, after a number of successful performances in London, he embarked on a walking tour of Scotland with his friend Karl Klingemann. It had, however, a lengthy gestation period and whilst he worked on his Scottish sketches when in Italy in 1831, he did not complete the work until 1842. It is one of his best-loved pieces.

Peter Maxwell Davies Farewell to Stromness (featuring harp solo)

This hauntingly beautiful piece is a tender nod to the Orkney Islands, where Maxwell Davies lived for much of his life. Composed as a gentle protest against a proposed uranium mine in the Orkneys, Farewell to Stromness reflects the composer's deep love for the landscape. With its lilting, folk-inspired melody, this piece is a serene, emotional close to the evening, capturing the timeless beauty of Scotland's shores.

 

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