Mozart and Berlioz

Two major orchestral works meet in this concert, with Gemma New from New Zealand on the podium. New is chief conductor of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and in recent years has guest-conducted orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic and BBC Philharmonic - she is recognized for her precise sense of sound and detail.

The evening opens with Elgar's Serenade for Strings, followed by Mozart's Symphony No. 40 - perhaps his most recognizable symphony, partly thanks to the film Amadeus. Behind the light, bouncing opening theme lies a darker undertone and restless themes that give the work both passion and refinement.

After the interval, Berlioz's Harold in Italy takes over. Here the viola takes a leading role as a poetic wandering figure moving through changing Italian landscapes and scenes. The soloist is Sara Ferrández, viola.

Programme:
E. Elgar: Serenade for Strings
W.A. Mozart: Symphony No. 40
H. Berlioz: Harold in Italy

Conductor: Gemma New | Soloist: Sara Ferrández, viola