Age of Anxiety

The evening opens with Jennifer Higdon’s Fanfare Ritmico, a short work defined by its percussive energy and forward momentum. This serves as a prelude to Leonard Bernstein’s Symphony No. 2, titled The Age of Anxiety. Inspired by W.H. Auden’s poem, the work functions similarly to a piano concerto, with the soloist acting as a central voice navigating various moods, from contemplative quiet to syncopated, jazz-influenced rhythms. You will hear the piano weave through the orchestral texture, often shifting between uneasy reflection and sudden bursts of activity. The second half of the concert is dedicated to Sergey Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5. Composed during the final stages of the Second World War, the symphony is grand in scale and designed to convey a sense of nobility and hope. Listen for the distinct contrasts between the expansive, lyrical melodies in the opening movement and the mechanical, driven energy of the Scherzo. The work concludes with a finale that balances rhythmic precision with a celebratory, large-scale orchestral sound.

Roderick Cox leads the BBC Philharmonic for this performance. The orchestra is based in Salford and is known for its extensive broadcasting work and commitment to both core symphonic repertoire and modern compositions. They are joined by pianist Hayato Sumino, who takes the solo role in the Bernstein symphony. Sumino has established a significant reputation for his versatility and technical command across different musical traditions. Together, they bring a programme that demands both precise rhythmic coordination and the ability to navigate the complex emotional landscapes found in mid-twentieth-century and contemporary orchestral writing.

This orchestral concert takes place at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. The programme features three distinct works, making it a suitable choice if you enjoy music with a cinematic quality or strong rhythmic pulse. As a standard symphonic evening, there is no specific dress code required, and formal attire is not expected. The venue is a modern concert hall with tiered seating designed for acoustic clarity. While the total running time is not specified, you can typically expect a full-scale orchestral event of this nature to include an interval between the Bernstein and Prokofiev symphonies.