ASMF & Eric Lu

The evening opens with Haydn’s Symphony No. 44, known as the Trauer or Mourning symphony. You will hear a work of intense emotional gravity, particularly in its slow movement, which the composer reportedly asked to be played at his own funeral. This shifts into the darker, restless energy of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20. Written in D minor, this concerto is celebrated for its dramatic tension and stormy keyboard passages, offering a sharp contrast to the typical brightness of the era. Following the interval, the mood pivots toward the virtuosic with Chopin’s Andante spianato et Grande polonaise brillante. Listen for the delicate, singing quality of the piano in the opening section before it gives way to the rhythmic flair of the polonaise. The concert concludes with Schubert’s Symphony No. 3, a work composed in his late teens. It provides a light, spirited finale, full of melodic charm and clear orchestral textures that showcase the woodwind section.

The Academy of St Martin in the Fields is one of the world’s most recorded chamber orchestras, renowned for its technical precision and the refined, polished sound it brings to the core classical repertoire. They are appearing here with pianist Eric Lu. Lu is recognised internationally for his sensitive interpretations and nuanced touch at the keyboard, having built a significant reputation for his performances of the Romantic and Classical masters. Together, they represent a partnership focused on clarity and expressive depth, performing in the very setting where the ensemble was first established.

This performance takes place at the Church of St Martin-in-the-Fields in London. The total duration is approximately 120 minutes, including an interval, making it a substantial evening of music suited to those who enjoy a full symphonic programme. The venue is an active parish church with fixed seating, so we recommend arriving early to find your place. There is no specific dress code for this event, and the accessible central London location makes it a practical choice for regular concertgoers and visitors alike.