Sheku Kanneh-Mason performs Britten

The evening opens with a contemplative work by Arvo Pärt, written as a tribute to Benjamin Britten. You will hear a steady, descending scale in the strings accompanied by a tolling bell, creating a landscape of stillness and reflection. This leads into Britten’s Symphony for Cello and Orchestra. Unlike a traditional concerto where the soloist sits on top of the texture, here the cello is woven into the orchestral fabric, often engaging in dark, muscular dialogues with the low brass and percussion. The music is intense and structurally complex, demanding great physical stamina from the soloist. The second half shifts towards the late-Romantic warmth of Elgar’s Enigma Variations. This series of musical sketches depicts the composer's friends and family, ranging from playful and energetic movements to the solemn, expansive chords of Nimrod. Throughout the variations, listen for the recurring hidden theme that binds these diverse character studies into a cohesive whole.

The Hallé is one of the UK’s most storied symphonic ensembles, deeply rooted in its Manchester home at The Bridgewater Hall. Known for a rich, expansive sound, the orchestra is joined by conductor Dinis Sousa. They are accompanied by soloist Sheku Kanneh-Mason, a cellist widely recognised for his lyrical approach and technical precision. The ensemble frequently explores the core British repertoire, and this programme allows them to demonstrate their versatility, moving from the sparse, modern textures of Pärt to the full-bodied, emotive orchestration required for Elgar.

This performance takes place at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. The concert has a total running time of approximately 72 minutes, making it a relatively concise experience that may suit those who prefer a shorter evening in the concert hall. The programme offers a balanced mix of 20th-century reflection and traditional British favourites, which serves as an accessible entry point for first-time attendees. No specific dress code is required for this venue. Please ensure you are seated before the start of the first work, as Pärt’s quiet opening requires absolute silence.