RSNO Plays Moussa & Beethoven

The evening opens with Samy Moussa’s own Quodlibet, a work scored for string orchestra. You will hear a series of French Canadian folk melodies interwoven into a modern structure, providing a lively and rhythmic introduction to the concert. This is followed by Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, known as the Pastoral Symphony. Unlike his more turbulent works, this piece focuses on the natural world. Listen for the distinct musical textures that mimic the flow of water, the calls of birds, and the arrival of a summer storm. Each movement flows into the next to depict a day spent in the countryside, moving from joyful arrival to a peaceful conclusion. The programme is designed to be accessible, offering a mix of contemporary folk-based writing and one of the most melodic symphonies in the classical canon. Before the music begins, Gillian Moore will provide an introduction to help set the scene for these two contrasting explorations of heritage and nature.

The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is Scotland’s national symphony ensemble, known for its extensive touring schedule and regular appearances across the country’s concert halls. For this performance, they are led by conductor Samy Moussa, who also composed the opening piece. The orchestra maintains a reputation for high-quality orchestral playing across a vast repertoire from the baroque to the present day. They are joined by Gillian Moore, a respected figure in the classical music industry, who will share insights into the evening’s music. This collaboration brings together a major national institution with contemporary creative leadership.

This performance takes place at Barony Hall in Cumnock. The concert has a duration of approximately 60 minutes, making it a suitable choice if you prefer a shorter evening or if you are attending an orchestral event for the first time. The shorter format allows for a focused listening experience without an interval. There is no specific dress code for this venue, and guests typically wear smart-casual attire. As the programme consists of purely orchestral and spoken elements, there are no surtitles or foreign language translations required.