Afternoon Performance: Elgar’s Cello Concerto

We begin this afternoon with the Cello Concerto by Edward Elgar. You will hear the soloist introduce the work with a distinctive, assertive four-chord sequence before the music moves into a more somber, autumnal mood. The work is famous for its lyrical intensity and a feeling of private reflection, particularly in the slow movement. Following the interval, the scale shifts significantly as the orchestra performs Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No 3. This is a work of great architecture and power. You should listen for the composer’s use of silences and sudden shifts in volume, as well as the recurring trumpet themes that provide a sense of unity across its four movements. While the Elgar feels like a personal conversation, the Bruckner offers a more monumental, structured soundscape. Together, they demonstrate the broad emotional and dynamic range of a full symphony orchestra, moving from intimate solo passages to dense, brass-led climaxes.

The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra is the resident ensemble at City Halls and is a mainstay of the cultural scene in Glasgow. Under the direction of conductor Michael Sanderling, the orchestra is joined by cellist Raphaela Gromes. Gromes is known for her collaborative spirit and technical precision on the international stage. Sanderling brings his extensive experience with the Germanic symphonic tradition to bear on the Bruckner symphony, while the ensemble provides the rich, versatile textures required for both the British concerto and the late-Romantic symphony.

This concert takes place at Glasgow City Halls, a venue known for its excellent acoustics. The performance is scheduled to last approximately two hours, which includes an interval. For those new to classical music, this programme offers a very clear contrast between a melodic solo concerto and a large-scale symphony. There is no specific dress code for this afternoon event, so you should wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. The central location in Glasgow makes the hall easily accessible for local attendees and visitors alike.