RSNO Plays Panufnik & Mozart

We begin this evening with the rhythmic drive of Grażyna Bacewicz’s writing for strings, a piece that provides an energetic opening to a concise programme. The central focus is the Scottish premiere of Roxanna Panufnik’s Lunar Solar, a double concerto designed for the unique textures of the oboe and cor anglais. As the title suggests, you can listen for how the music explores the contrasting qualities of light and shadow associated with the sun and moon. The interplay between the two woodwind soloists provides a distinct tonal palette before the evening transitions to the familiar landscape of late Mozart. You will hear Symphony No. 39, one of the composer’s final symphonies, which offers a grand yet graceful conclusion to the performance. With the addition of a presenter to guide us through these works, the concert is structured to provide both context and a steady flow of music across just three contrasting pieces.

The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is the national symphony ensemble of Scotland, widely known for its extensive touring and recording schedule. For this performance, they are led by conductor Holly Hyun Choe. The orchestra’s own woodwind principals, Adrian Wilson and Henry Clay, take the spotlight as soloists on oboe and cor anglais respectively. The evening is hosted by presenter Gillian Moore, who will provide spoken introductions to the works. This ensemble is celebrated for its versatility, regularly performing a range of repertoire from classical staples to new commissions across the country’s major concert halls.

This performance takes place at the Beacon Arts Centre in Greenock. With a total running time of approximately 47 minutes, it is an ideal choice if you are a first-time visitor to orchestral music or if you prefer a shorter evening in the concert hall without an interval. There is no specific dress code for this event; standard smart-casual attire is perfectly appropriate. Tickets are available starting from sixteen pounds and fifty pence, offering a compact and accessible way to experience a full national symphony orchestra in a regional setting.