Ulster Orchestra – Once Upon A Time…

We are guided through a series of vivid narratives in this orchestral showcase, starting with the folk-inspired melodies of Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel Suite. This opening provides a lush, late-Romantic texture that contrasts with the clarity of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 9, often called the Jeunehomme. You will notice a shift in energy here; the concerto requires a lighter touch and marks a significant moment where the piano begins to speak with a more individual, expressive voice. Following the interval, the evening turns toward the theatrical flair of Tchaikovsky. You will hear the grand Polonaise from his opera Eugene Onegin, followed by the expansive Suite from The Sleeping Beauty. The orchestra will focus on the rhythmic vitality and shifting orchestral colours that Tchaikovsky used to drive his dramatic storytelling. Listen for the way the woodwinds and strings trade melodic phrases in the ballet sequences, creating a sense of movement and scale even without dancers on a stage.

The Ulster Orchestra is Northern Ireland’s premier professional ensemble, based in the heart of Belfast. They are recognised for a wide-ranging repertoire that spans the Baroque era to contemporary commissions. On this occasion, they are led by conductor Samy Rachid. Joining them is the American pianist Jonathan Biss, who is highly regarded for his thoughtful interpretations of the classical canon, particularly the works of Mozart and Beethoven. The collaboration promises a balance between the disciplined structures of the 18th century and the grand, emotional sweeps of 19th-century Russian and German orchestral writing.

This performance takes place at the historic Ulster Hall in Belfast. The selection of familiar suites and a well-known concerto makes this a particularly suitable choice if you are attending an orchestral concert for the first time. The programme offers a variety of moods and styles without requiring a background in musicology to enjoy. While the exact running time is not specified, a concert of this nature typically includes a twenty-minute interval. There is no formal dress code required at this venue; most audience members choose smart-casual attire for an evening event.