New Year with the LPO

We begin with the energetic overture to Die Fledermaus, setting a tone of Viennese refinement and wit. The first half of the concert focuses on the dexterity of the horn in Mozart’s Fourth Concerto. You should listen for the interplay between the soloist and the ensemble, particularly in the final movement which mimics the sounds of a traditional hunt. As the performance shifts towards dance, you will hear a selection of works by the Strauss family and Brahms. The programme moves from the rhythmic precision of the Pizzicato Polka to the boisterous energy of the Thunder and Lightning Polka. Brahms’ Hungarian Dances provide a shift in mood, offering earthy, folk-inspired melodies that contrast with the familiar, fluid pulse of The Blue Danube. The event concludes with the Radetzky March, a piece traditionally used to encourage rhythmic participation from the room, rounding off a morning designed around movement and celebration.

Gergely Madaras leads the London Philharmonic Orchestra, an ensemble known for its extensive residency at the Southbank Centre and its versatility across symphonic and operatic repertoire. For this performance, they are joined by soloist Annemarie Federle, the orchestra’s own principal horn player. The ensemble is recognised for its clarity and technical precision, frequently performing both at its London home and across regional venues. Here, they bring their expertise to a varied selection of classical staples, showcasing both the individual virtuosity of their principal players and the collective weight of a full symphonic section.

This performance takes place at Saffron Hall in Saffron Walden. The concert has a total running time of 120 minutes, making it a substantial outing for those who enjoy a full-length programme. Given the familiar and melodic nature of the Strauss and Mozart pieces, this event is well-suited if you are new to live orchestral music or visiting with family. There is no specific dress code mentioned for this venue, so neat casual attire is generally appropriate. You should plan to arrive in time for the start as specified on your ticket.