The Mermaid

We begin with the shifting, nocturnal atmosphere of the Nachtstück from Schreker’s Der ferne Klang, a piece that serves as an atmospheric entry point into this late-Romantic journey. You will hear how the orchestra creates a sense of restlessness and longing through dense textures and a broad range of instrumental colours. Following this, the focus shifts to Korngold’s Violin Concerto. It is a work famously influenced by the golden age of cinema, and you should listen for the way the solo violin carries expansive, song-like melodies over a rich orchestral backdrop, particularly in the energetic finale. The second half of the performance is dedicated to Zemlinsky’s The Mermaid. This substantial symphonic poem translates a well-known fairy tale into music. As the piece unfolds, you will notice how the ensemble uses a huge variety of sounds to represent the movement of water and the psychological depths of the central character, moving from quiet glimmers to massive, surging climaxes.

The London Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the pillars of the London music scene, known for its versatility and its long-standing residency at the Royal Festival Hall. Under the direction of their Principal Conductor, Edward Gardner, the ensemble frequently explores the intricate, large-scale works of the early twentieth century. Joining them for this performance is the violinist Bomsori, an international soloist celebrated for her technical precision and her expressive, lyrical approach to the concerto repertoire. Together, they bring a wealth of experience to this programme of complex and vivid orchestral writing.

This performance at the Royal Festival Hall in London is centred around three distinct pieces, with Zemlinsky’s The Mermaid lasting approximately thirty-nine minutes. Because the individual works are relatively accessible and rich in melody, the evening is well-suited if you are visiting the Southbank Centre for the first time or if you enjoy music with a narrative quality. There is no specific dress code for this venue, though most attendees opt for smart-casual attire. The total running time for the musical content is around 78 minutes, not including any intervals.