Orchestral Series  2023-24

Expect plenty of genuine surprises for our 2023-2024 Orchestral Season, as our programme boasts truly iconic works alongside lesser-known masterpieces, and all performed by some of the most accomplished musicians in the world.

We begin with the pioneering Chineke! Orchestra, presenting a programme of French classics that take us back to a time of radical societal change. And at the centre (of both their concert and the period) is the remarkable Joseph Bologne (aka Le Chevalier de Saint-Georges). A true polymath, he’s the very definition of ‘young, gifted and Black.’ No wonder Hollywood’s jumped onto his remarkable story, retelling it as biopic Chevalier.

In another cinematic link, hearing John William’s iconic Imperial March from Star Wars performed by the Symphony Orchestra of India, conducted by Richard Farnes, will undoubtedly delight film buffs. Hearing the brooding march in a cinema is one thing – but performed by a full orchestra is genuinely something else. A ‘force’ to be reckoned with ...

Over the coming months, we also welcome back Miloš Karadaglić, who has done so much for the classical guitar, and who can’t wait to see Sir Mark Elder and Sir Stephen Hough reunited? With Sir Mark’s The Hallé tenure coming to a close after a quarter of a century, it’s a concert that draws our season to a climatic close.

But it’s not just about those established giants, as other season highlights include the National Youth Orchestra, who represent the next generation, consistently amazing audiences with their spirited and masterful performances - another chance to see Sir Mark Elder in work as the NYO have secured his services to conduct, and rising star (and Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Artist-in-Residence) Zlatomir Fung.

DOREEN FOSTER
Director, Warwick Arts Centre