Sinfonia of London: Rachmaninov's Symphonic Dances
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- What you'll hear
- All about the music
Sentimental. Energetic. Dancing with a broom optional.
Who’s on stage
We give another warm Gateshead welcome to local conducting sensation John Wilson and his top-tier band of musicians, the Sinfonia of London, together with soloist, the viola player Edgar Francis.
What they’re playing
Dukas’ The Sorcerers Apprentice – better known from the Disney film Fantasia (remember Mickey Mouse dancing with a broom?), Walton’s spine-tingling Viola Concerto and Rachmaninov’s muscular Symphonic Dances.
Need to know
Discounts: save if you’re under 17, aged 18 – 30, a classical first timer, or a group of 10 or more people. Check the details.
Running time: 2 hours, including a 20 minute interval.
Age: under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.
What you'll hear
Paul Dukas The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
William Walton Viola Concerto
Sergei Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances
Who's playing it
John Wilson conductor
Edgar Francis viola
Sinfonia of London
What's happening in the music?
Rachmaninov was in the USA when he wrote Symphonic Dances, and there’s definitely a tinge of home sickness in his music, a longing for his Russian homeland. It’s full of big bold tunes and strong rhythms, but there’s something nostalgic too. William Walton’s Viola Concerto is (slightly) more restrained – soulful and full of gorgeous musical textures, with little references to jazz and blues styles.
Make the most of it
Tickets
Saturday 27 February 2027
From: £5.00 - £55.00