Stravinsky’s arrangement of Chopin’s piano piece was his first commission for Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes. It reveals his talent for orchestration that was to shine in the collaborations to come. Prokofiev’s reworked film score is one of his most popular creations. The life of the fictitious Lieutenant Kijé is told through a series of cheeky and witty miniatures including mock military march, pompous fanfares and clumping dance tunes and a brisk, joyful sleigh ride. Rachmaninov created a remarkable sound-world in his Second Symphony. Sombre harmonies complement the rich orchestration like deeply burnished mahogany. Full of themes which slowly emerge, reappear and reach intense climaxes, it is a truly luscious piece, shown best in the glorious adagio – just sit back and enjoy Rachmaninov at his best!

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Pre-Concert Talk

Make the most of your concert by getting to know the music in more depth with our informative video about the pieces being performed.