Sibelius's Four Legends

We begin this evening with the organic, open-air textures of Dvořák’s In Nature’s Realm, a piece that serves as an atmospheric entry point before the complexity of Thomas Adès’s Concentric Paths. This violin concerto is structured in three movements that explore different cyclical ideas, moving from a dense, agitated opening into a central slow movement of significant lyrical weight. The second half of the concert is dedicated entirely to Sibelius’s Lemminkäinen Suite, a set of four symphonic poems based on the Finnish national epic. You will hear the familiar, melancholic voice of the cor anglais representing the swan in the second movement, followed by the darker, more turbulent sounds of the hero’s descent into the underworld. The evening concludes with a vigorous, rhythmic depiction of his homecoming. Listen for the way Sibelius uses low woodwinds and strings to conjure a sense of cold, mythic landscapes throughout this expansive narrative cycle.

The Hallé returns to their resident stage at The Bridgewater Hall under the direction of conductor Elena Schwarz. Based in Manchester, the orchestra is internationally recognised for its symphonic breadth and its ongoing commitment to both the core Romantic repertoire and significant modern compositions. Joining them is the violinist Leila Josefowicz, a soloist frequently associated with the technical and expressive demands of contemporary music. Together, they bring a programme that balances the traditional storytelling of the nineteenth century with the intricate, harmonically adventurous structures of the present day.

This performance takes place in the heart of Manchester at The Bridgewater Hall. With a total running time of approximately 79 minutes, the concert is well-suited if you prefer a focused evening that remains well under two hours. The inclusion of a well-known melodic work by Sibelius alongside a concise modern concerto makes this an accessible choice for those new to orchestral music. There is no formal dress code required at the venue; most attendees choose smart-casual attire. Please note that the programme includes a scheduled interval between the concerto and the Sibelius suite.