Dalia Stasevska conducts Berg's Violin Concerto

The evening opens with Jean Sibelius’s Tapiola, a tone poem that evokes the vast and mysterious spirit of the Finnish forests. You will hear the composer’s mastery of organic growth, where small fragments of melody gradually transform into an expansive, shifting soundscape. The focus then turns to Alban Berg’s Violin Concerto. Written in memory of a young friend, the work weaves together traditional folk motifs and rigorous technical structures to create a deeply moving atmosphere. We suggest listening for the delicate balance between the soloist’s searching lines and the dense textures of the orchestra. Following the interval, the programme moves into the modern era with John Adams’s Doctor Atomic Symphony. This orchestral suite, derived from his opera, captures the intense psychological and historical weight of the nuclear age. The music shifts between propulsive, driving rhythms and moments of stark, haunting stillness, providing a dramatic conclusion to a programme that spans the diverse sonic landscapes of the twentieth century.

The BBC Symphony Orchestra is a cornerstone of British musical life, known for its commitment to both core repertoire and pioneering new works. Based in London, the ensemble is joined by Dalia Stasevska, a conductor recognised for her energetic and clear interpretations of large-scale symphonic scores. The soloist is Isabelle Faust, a violinist celebrated for her technical precision and thoughtful approach to complex modern concertos. Together, these performers bring a wealth of experience in navigating the intellectual and emotional demands of significant twentieth-century compositions, often performing at major London venues and international festivals.

This performance takes place at the Barbican in London and has a total running time of approximately 120 minutes, including an interval. The varied programme makes this an excellent choice if you enjoy orchestral music that tells a story or explores specific historical themes. There is no specific dress code for this venue, so you should wear what makes you feel comfortable. The Barbican’s concert hall is a large space, and the complex nature of these three works ensures a substantial and engaging evening for both seasoned listeners and those new to these composers.