Dutch Masters: Lucie Horsch

The evening is built around the light and agile voice of the recorder, beginning with Jacob van Eyck’s imitation of birdsong from the Dutch Golden Age. You will hear how the instrument transitions from these folk-inspired melodies into the formal structural rigour of Johann Sebastian Bach’s E minor Sonata. The selection moves through the Baroque elegance of Anna Amalia of Prussia and Isabella Leonarda, whose Sonata duodecima provides a fine example of seventeenth-century Italian style. A shift in atmosphere occurs with excerpts from Benjamin Britten’s Metamorphoses, which uses the solo woodwind line to trace mythological transformations with sparse, modern textures. Jean-Marie Leclair’s Sonata Op 9 No 2 rounds out the programme, offering a sophisticated French perspective on the form. Listen for the subtle dynamic shifts and the intricate, close-knit dialogue between the wind and keyboard parts as they navigate these varied historical periods within a chamber setting.

The London Symphony Orchestra presents this chamber performance featuring recorder player Lucie Horsch and harpsichordist Jonathan Cohen. Lucie Horsch is recognised for her ability to bring a contemporary vitality to early instruments, often exploring a range of repertoire from the Baroque to the twentieth century. Jonathan Cohen is well-regarded for his expertise in historical performance practice and keyboard accompaniment. Together, they represent a partnership focused on clarity and stylistic precision, typically heard in intimate venues where the delicate textures of the harpsichord and recorder can be fully appreciated by the audience.

This performance takes place at LSO St Luke’s in London, a converted church known for its clear acoustics and historic atmosphere. The recital has a total running time of 65 minutes without an interval, making it a suitable choice if you prefer a shorter, concentrated musical experience or are attending a concert for the first time. There is no specific dress code mentioned, so you should feel comfortable in smart-casual attire. The venue offers an intimate setting that brings you close to the performers, ideal for this scale of chamber music.