Storgårds conducts Shostakovich

We are presented with a focused exploration of Shostakovich through two works that contrast the intimate with the monumental. The evening begins with the String Quartet No. 8 in C minor, a work often noted for its recurring personal motifs and intense, sombre atmosphere. You will hear four string players navigating a piece that feels deeply private, moving through five connected movements that rarely rise above a whisper before turning starkly percussive. Following this, the scale shifts dramatically for the Symphony No. 7, known as the 'Leningrad'. This is a massive symphonic statement, famous for its first-movement 'invasion' theme—a persistent, repetitive rhythmic figure that builds to a terrifying volume. Listen for the way the ensemble handles the sheer physical weight of the brass and percussion in this work, which was composed as a defiant response to the siege of the city during the Second World War. Together, these two works show a composer speaking both through the quiet detail of a quartet and the roar of a full orchestra.

The BBC Philharmonic is a cornerstone of the Manchester classical scene, based at MediaCityUK. They are frequently heard on national radio and are respected for their wide-ranging repertoire, spanning from core symphonic works to contemporary commissions. On the podium is John Storgårds, the ensemble’s Chief Conductor, who is known for his clear, unsentimental approach to the great Northern and Russian cycles. Joining them are the strings of the NOVO Quartet, an emerging ensemble quickly gaining a reputation for the clarity and poise of their chamber music interpretations.

This performance takes place at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester on 6 February 2027. This venue is specifically designed for symphonic sound, which is essential for the large-scale orchestration of the Seventh Symphony. Because the programme includes both a string quartet and a major symphony, the evening will likely include an interval. There is no specific dress code, though many visitors choose smart-casual attire. If you are new to orchestral music, the clear narrative and dramatic shifts in volume of the 'Leningrad' make this an accessible and impactful introduction to the genre.