Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Schiff's Mendelssohn
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- What you'll hear
- All about the music
- Take a listen
Fresh. Sparkling. Wear a kilt.
Who’s on stage
Blessed (or cursed) with one of the more unusual names in classical music, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment perform things as the composer intended, or as close as possible. Because, over time, instruments, playing techniques and styles of performance have changed. So by going back to original instruments, or replicas, and researching performance techniques you get just a little bit closer to what the composer intended. They’re joined on stage by one of their favourite collaborators, pianist and conductor András Schiff.
Period Sound
Wonder what that actually sounds like? It’s a subtle shift. Perhaps a bit more direct, maybe tiny bit less refined, definitely a lighter and more airy sound than a modern orchestra. Only one way to find out really…
What they’re playing
It’s a feast of music by Felix Mendelssohn, including one of most famous pieces, the Scottish Symphony.
Need to know
Price: £19 – £46
Running time: 2 hours, including a 20 minute interval.
Discounts: Save if you’re local, unemployed, a first timer.
Age: Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.
Concert programme: learn more about the music and performers you’re about to hear with your free downloadable programme.
What you'll hear
Felix Mendelssohn Symphony No. 5 ‘Reformation’ (33′)
Felix Mendelssohn Piano Concerto No. 2 (25′)
Felix Mendelssohn Symphony No. 3 ‘Scottish’ (40′)
Who's playing
Sir András Schiff director/piano
Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
What's happening in the music
Mendelssohn loved Scotland. So much so that he wrote not one but two pieces of music that were inspired by his travels around it. Here’s the bigger one – his Scottish symphony, a really evocative description of the mighty Scottish Landscape. Also on the bill is his celebratory Reformation symphony and second piano concerto – charming, full of tunes and with a zingy, high energy finish.
Take a listen
Hear Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment play (Attilio Ariosti) ‘March of the Dead’. You might recognise this piece and the playing from when it was featured on the TV series The Crown.
