Scheherazade

The evening opens with Mel Bonis’s musical portraits of three historical women, Salomé, Ophélie, and Cléopâtre. You will hear how these distinct characters are reflected in the shifting colours of the orchestra. Following this, the mood turns more solemn with Lili Boulanger’s Psalm 130. This setting of the text 'Du fond de l'abîme' is a significant choral work known for its intense emotional weight and sombre, expansive textures. The second half of the performance is dedicated to Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade. As you listen, we suggest following the thread of the solo violin, which acts as the voice of the narrator herself. This recurring motif provides a point of focus amidst the vivid, sea-swept orchestral landscapes. The work is famous for its rich orchestration and its ability to weave different folk-inspired themes into a coherent narrative arc, moving from turbulent brass fanfares to delicate woodwind passages and back again.

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra serves as the resident ensemble of Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, boasting a long history in the city. They are recognised for their versatility across the core symphonic repertoire and their commitment to exploring less frequent works from the early twentieth century. Joining them on the podium is conductor Karel Deseure. Deseure is known for his clear direction and his work with both operatic and symphonic ensembles across Europe. Together, they bring a focused approach to this programme of French and Russian works, balancing the technical demands of a large-scale choir and orchestra.

This performance takes place at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall in the heart of Liverpool. The concert has a total duration of approximately 120 minutes, including an interval, which makes it a substantial and varied evening of music. The inclusion of well-known melodies alongside rarer choral pieces makes this a suitable choice if you are new to orchestral concerts or interested in female composers. There is no specific dress code for this venue; most attendees choose smart-casual attire. Please note that the programme involves both purely instrumental music and a large-scale choral work.