CBSO 2024/25: Kazuki conducts Elgar & Tchaikovsky

Thursday 19 June

A night of passion, power, and unforgettable music awaits, with two emotive masterpieces brought to life in this stirring orchestral performance. With a running time of approximately two hours, this concert promises a rich, moving experience for music lovers of all ages — though under 16s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

At the heart of the programme is Elgar’s beloved Cello Concerto, a late work that has become one of the most cherished pieces in the British classical canon. Written in the shadow of the First World War, it’s a profoundly expressive work — full of yearning, dignity, and lyrical beauty. Its haunting opening bars remain among the most iconic in the repertoire, and hearing them performed live is always a moving experience. This performance is made all the more special by the presence of Sheku Kanneh-Mason, the celebrated young cellist whose sensitivity and soulfulness have captivated audiences around the world. His interpretation promises to bring new light and emotional depth to this timeless concerto.

Following the poignant elegance of Elgar, the concert takes a thrilling turn with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. Bold, dramatic and unflinchingly honest, it’s a work that grapples with fate, pushing through struggle and uncertainty to reach a powerful, triumphant conclusion. From its sombre opening to its explosive finale, the symphony is a showcase of orchestral colour, melodic richness, and emotional intensity — a journey from darkness into light, told through one of Tchaikovsky’s most passionate scores.

This is not just a concert, but a celebration of the expressive power of music — from the introspective beauty of Elgar’s cello writing to the fiery determination of Tchaikovsky’s symphonic vision. Whether you’re a seasoned concert-goer or new to orchestral music, this promises to be a night to remember.

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