Saturday 10th July 2010 7.30
The United Reformed Church, Southernhay, Exeter

Shostakovich – Festive Overture
Schumann - Konzertstück for four horns, Op. 86 with Nicolas Fleury, Katy Woolley, Francesco Bossaglia and Tom Kane

Katy Woolley

 

Nicolas Fleury and Tom Kane 

Francesco Bossaglia 

 

 

Shostakovich – Cello Concerto No. 1, soloist Oliver Gledhill

 

 

 

Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 4 in F minor

 

 

In our plan to continue to bring you exciting, varied and innovative music programming, this summer brings you four very varied but exhilarating works.  The Shostakovich overture has stood the test of time and will set the evening off in fine style - with colour and fun.  The Schumann is one of the most exciting works for solo horns of the 19th century and connects with the Shostakovich, and from the very first fanfare we are in a world of beautiful tunes and glorious horn sounds which will keep you on the edge of your seats.  What is the connection with the other Shostakovich work I hear you ask?  Answer - the horn.  It features strongly throughout the concerto and its call to attention just before the final bars is one of the great ‘Coups de Theatre’ in 20th century music.  The theme, on the other hand, must be likened to that other four note theme – that of Beethoven’s 5th - for its insistent, repetitive drive.  Surely this is one of the great 20th century concerti.  The final work needs no introduction and Tchaikovsky lives with us from excitement as a young person; through disdain in the next part of our lives, to that relaxation of later life, just as with Mozart.  Just really enjoy the emotional rollercoaster and grand tunes. Then add to it the dreaded return of the Fate theme (first announced at the start) in the finale and you have all the ingredients of Alton Towers at its best!!  Do come and have a great evening out. 
Brian Northcott

 

We are delighted to welcome Oliver Gledhill as our soloist for this concert, playing Shostakovich – Cello Concerto No. 1. Oliver was a scholar at the Guildhall School of Music and won numerous awards. He has given recitals at the Wigmore Hall and Purcell Room as well as playing in music festivals across Europe. He has recorded several CDs including the complete works for cello by Léon Boëllmann. He is the Professor of Cello at Junior Guildhall and teaches at Mill Hill School and Chigwell School, and is an examiner for Trinity Guildhall.

 

Ticket availability:  Tickets are £10 each (under 18s in full time education free when accompanied.  Tickets are available from Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street (01392 667080), OPUS, the Gallery, Guildhall Shopping Centre (214044), Joel Segal Books, Topsham (877895), Orchestra members or at the door.