the performers:

Members of the London Symphony Orchestra

the programme:

de Bériot + Milhaud + Gershwin + Johnson + Porter + Poulenc + Rodney-Bennett + Mozart

about the music:

The music in this concert is chosen by the performers, and they’ll be introducing all the pieces themselves - it’s a great chance to hear the players of the London Symphony Orchestra talk about what music they like to listen to and play, and why.

This programme features everything from Mozart to Cole Porter. Every piece is a gem. We won’t focus on everything (we’ll leave that to them), but here are couple of highlights:

Crosstalk by Richard Rodney-Bennet is a really great piece for two clarinets. At the beginning it sounds like the two parts don’t really make sense together, but the more you listen, the more you can hear a sense of conversation. I’ve always felt that clarinets sound a lot like a warm voice, so Rodney-Bennett’s choice of instruments makes the piece feel really human.

There’s a lot of jazz inspired music in the programme, including an arrangement of one of the great Gershwin songs: Fascinating Rhythm.

A lot of these songs are beautiful at the same time as being witty and self-referential. Most of this song is about itself - listen out for the way the rhythm bounces off the beat.

All of these jazz numbers have been arranged specially for the members of the LSO - definitely worth hearing live.

about the performers:

We think the London Symphony Orchestra is the best orchestra in the world. We’re a little bit biased, but still… we aren’t the only ones.

This ensemble is made up of players from this legendary orchestra in a rare small-group appearance. They’re world-class, but they’re also fun. It’s a real treat to go to a concert where they’ll talk you through each piece themselves.

The line-up will include Maxine Kwok (violin) + Harriet Rayfield (violin) + Gillianne Haddow (viola) + Jennie Brown (cello) + Chris Richards (clarinet) + Chi-Yu Mo (clarinet)

about the venue:

Jerwood Hall, LSO St. Luke’s is the LSO’s hall specially for smaller, more intimate concerts. It’s just down the road from the Barbican and Old Street and in a great area for grabbing a bite to eat and drink before or after the concert.

the price:

FREE (ticket required)