On 9 January 2018, the London Schools Symphony Orchestra (LSSO) will mark the 100th anniversary of Holst’s The Planets with a special performance at Barbican Hall under the baton of one of Britain’s most distinguished conductors, Sir Richard Armstrong.
Entitled Planets, the concert is a celebration of Holst’s masterpiece, which was composed at Morley College, now the modern day home of the LSSO. Holst was Director of Music at the college from 1907 to 1924, and it was during this time that he took a holiday to Spain and was introduced to astrology by the writer Clifford Bax. This was to be the inspiration for The Planets, which was first performed in 1918 to an audience including Sir Henry Wood.
To mark the 100th anniversary, Sir Richard Armstrong will make a rare London appearance with the capital’s leading youth orchestra.
Hailed by Sir Simon Rattle as “an incomparable ambassador for the dynamism and excellence of British youth” the London Schools Symphony Orchestra gives young musicians in the capital the opportunity to perform with professional conductors and soloists in three Barbican Hall concerts each season, plus an international tour.
Founded in 1951 by the late Dr Leslie Russell, the orchestra has worked with renowned soloists such Maria João Pires, Aleksandar Madzar, Alina Ibragimova, Matthew Trusler, Louise Hopkins, Joan Rodgers and Janice Watson.
Speaking about the upcoming concert, Artistic Director Peter Ash comments: “The LSSO is thrilled to be working with Sir Richard again and to welcome back Louise Alder, one of our former members, now as soloist. The concert promises a wonderful mixture of youth and experience. The Planets is a thrilling work to play. I am certain the experience will be a cosmic one for everyone involved.”
Concert Programme
9 January 2018, 19.30
Barbican Hall, London
London Schools Symphony Orchestra
Richard Armstrong, conductor
Louise Alder, soprano
Bernstein – Overture to Candide 5’
Barber – Knoxville: Summer of 1915 16’
Interval
Holst – The Planets 53’
Artists:
London Schools Symphony Orchestra
Richard Armstrong
Louise Alder
Find out more and purchase tickets here
Related content: National Theatre Commemorates 400th Anniversary of Shakespeare
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