My Homeland

The evening opens with Dvořák’s My Homeland, a piece that captures the rhythmic energy and folk-inspired textures typical of the composer’s celebratory orchestral writing. You will then hear Florence Beatrice Price’s Violin Concerto No. 1, a work that places the solo instrument within a rich, late-Romantic landscape while weaving in melodic influences from African American spirituals and folk traditions. Listen for the way the solo violin interacts with the lower woodwinds and brass, creating a sound that is both intimate and expansive. The concert concludes with William Grant Still’s Symphony No. 4. This symphony is notable for its rhythmic vitality and the way it integrates early 20th-century jazz sensibilities with the structural weight of a classical symphony. Together, these three works provide a perspective on how different cultural identities and national heritages have been expressed through the medium of the symphony orchestra, moving from the pastoral sounds of Central Europe to the evolving musical language of North America.

The London Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the world's most distinguished ensembles, known for its extensive recording history and its residencies at the Southbank Centre and Glyndebourne. In this performance, they are led by conductor Kellen Gray. They are joined by soloist Elena Urioste, a violinist recognised for her collaborative approach and expressive technical facility. The orchestra is celebrated for its versatility, regularly performing a wide range of repertoire from established classical masterpieces to significant works by 20th-century and contemporary composers, maintaining a reputation for precision and tonal clarity.

This performance takes place at the Brighton Dome in Brighton and has a running time of approximately 60 minutes. Because there is no interval and the total duration is relatively short, it is an excellent choice for first-time concertgoers or those who prefer a more concise musical experience. The venue is a landmark of the city’s cultural quarter. Tickets start at 18.50. As is standard for orchestral concerts in the United Kingdom, there is no specific dress code, and most audience members opt for smart-casual attire.