Walton Symphony No. 1

The concert opens with Vaughan Williams’s Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, a work for double string orchestra that makes use of spatial separation to create a sense of vast, echoing distance. You will hear the lush, layered textures of the strings as they revisit a sixteenth-century melody, blending Tudor heritage with early twentieth-century richness. This is followed by Cassandra Miller’s Dad Goes to the Mountain, a piece that offers a contemporary shift in perspective before we reach the evening’s centrepiece. William Walton’s Symphony No. 1 provides a stark contrast to the opening stillness. It is a work of immense rhythmic drive and psychological intensity. As you listen, look out for the relentless tension in the first movement and the biting wit of the Scherzo. The symphony concludes with a celebratory finale that demands absolute precision and power from the entire orchestra, providing a visceral and grand conclusion to the programme.

John Storgårds conducts the BBC Philharmonic for this performance. Storgårds is highly regarded for his adventurous programming and his particular affinity with both Nordic and British symphonic traditions. The BBC Philharmonic is based at MediaCityUK in Salford and is a cornerstone of the musical life in the North of England. They are known for their technical versatility and a wide-ranging discography that spans from standard nineteenth-century classics to complex contemporary premieres. Their partnership with Storgårds frequently explores large-scale orchestral works that showcase the ensemble’s cohesive sound and dynamic range.

This orchestral concert takes place at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. The venue is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics, particularly suited to the large-scale brass and percussion required for the Walton symphony. While no specific running time has been provided, a three-work symphonic programme typically lasts around two hours including an interval. The atmosphere at these evening concerts is generally informal, and there is no specific dress code required. This selection of music offers a great entry point for a first-time visitor, balancing a very famous string masterpiece with a powerful, high-energy symphony.