Rachmaninoff’s 3rd Symphony

We begin this evening with Stravinsky’s Circus Polka for a Young Elephant, a brief and playful work originally written for a dance involving fifty elephants. You will hear a sharp, rhythmic vitality and a clever quotation of Schubert towards the end. This is followed by Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No.3, which demands significant technical agility from the soloist. Listen for the way the piano interacts with the woodwinds in the opening movement and the varying moods of the central theme and variations. After the interval, the programme moves to Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No.3. This work represents the composer's later style, written while he was living in Switzerland. You will hear lush orchestral textures and a sense of longing for his Russian homeland. Unlike his earlier symphonies, this piece feels more concentrated and leans into a modern, cinematic sound, particularly in the way the brass and percussion are utilised in the final movement.

Bertie Baigent leads the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, an ensemble known for its versatile programming and deep connection to its Midlands home. Joining them is pianist Tomos Boyles, a soloist recognised for his technical command and interpretative focus. The orchestra maintains a reputation for delivering clear, powerful performances of the core symphonic repertoire, while Baigent is noted for his considered approach to large-scale orchestral structures. Together, they bring these three contrasting twentieth-century works to life, moving from light-hearted dance rhythms to the dense, romantic harmonies of the Russian symphonic tradition.

The performance takes place at Symphony Hall in Birmingham, a venue renowned for its clear and resonant acoustics. The total running time is approximately 105 minutes, including an interval, which makes it a substantial evening of music suitable for those who enjoy full-scale symphonic programmes. Given the variety of the works included, from the short opening polka to the expansive final symphony, this concert offers a broad introduction to mid-century orchestral styles. There is no specific dress code for this event, and the venue provides a modern, comfortable environment for listeners.