Sakari Oramo conducts Grime, Arnold and Vaughan Williams

The evening opens with the Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, a work originally conceived for the acoustics of a cathedral. You will hear two string orchestras separated on stage to create a shimmering, ethereal layering of sound. Following this, the mood shifts as Colin Currie joins the ensemble for a Percussion Concerto. You should look for the vast array of instruments required for this piece, which demands significant physical agility and provides a sharp contrast to the opening strings. After the interval, the programme concludes with Symphony No. 7. This single-movement work offers a cinematic quality, moving through continuous sections that suggest vast, frozen landscapes and shifting orchestral colours. We can expect a broad range of textures throughout the night, moving from the choral-like warmth of the Tudor-inspired opening to the more rugged, icy atmospheres of the final symphony. The transition between these distinct musical worlds provides a comprehensive view of twentieth-century orchestral writing.

Sakari Oramo leads the BBC Symphony Orchestra in this performance. Oramo is well known for his meticulous approach to large-scale symphonic structures and his long-standing partnership with this ensemble. Based in London, the BBC Symphony Orchestra is a cornerstone of the city's musical life, frequently performing at the Barbican and appearing at major festivals. They are joined by soloist Colin Currie, a musician celebrated for his expertise in contemporary percussion repertoire. Together, these performers are recognised for delivering technically demanding programmes with a focus on both established modern classics and rhythmic precision.

This performance takes place at the Barbican in London and has a total duration of 120 minutes, which includes an interval. The programme is well-suited if you are interested in hearing a variety of orchestral textures, though the two-hour length is standard for a full evening concert. As this is an orchestral and choral event rather than a staged opera, there are no surtitles or specific language considerations to note. The venue does not enforce a particular dress code, so you may wear what makes you feel comfortable for a concert setting.