Tchaikovsky, Kendall and Liadov

We begin this evening with the delicate textures of Anatoly Liadov's The Enchanted Lake. You will hear a shimmering, atmospheric exploration of sound that relies on subtle orchestral colour rather than a traditional narrative drive. This serves as a quiet prelude to the world premiere of a new commission by Hannah Kendall, titled I have discovered the secret of death. As a first-time performance, this piece offers you the chance to encounter a contemporary voice alongside established classics. The second half of the concert is dedicated to Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No 5. Listen for the recurring theme that appears in every movement, often referred to as a motto representing fate. It transforms from a somber, brooding melody in the clarinets at the start into a grand, assertive march by the final bars. The work is famous for its emotional range, moving from intimate horn solos in the second movement to the high-stakes energy of the finale.

The London Symphony Orchestra is the resident ensemble at the Barbican, known for a rigorous schedule and a vast discography that spans from standard symphonic repertoire to film scores. In this performance, they are led by Sir Antonio Pappano. As a conductor, he is widely recognised for his dramatic intuition and long tenure at major international opera houses, bringing that same sense of narrative weight to the concert platform. The orchestra is celebrated for its precise, powerful sound, which is particularly suited to the large-scale Romantic works and new commissions featured in tonight's selection.

This performance takes place at the Barbican in London and has a total duration of 105 minutes, including an interval. This length is standard for a full orchestral evening, making it a suitable choice if you are looking for a complete symphonic experience rather than a short recital. The venue follows a relaxed dress code where most attendees opt for smart-casual attire. If this is your first time attending an orchestral concert, the combination of a short contemporary work and a well-known symphony provides a balanced introduction to the genre.