COLOURFUL | IMPRESSIONISTIC | PUNCHY

María Huld Markan Sigfúsdóttir Oceans [UK premiere]

Barber Violin Concerto

Respighi Rossiniana

Rossini William Tell Overture | Agorawd

Nil Venditti returns to BBC Hoddinott Hall this November with another programme featuring Respighi and Rossini, this time alongside the iconic Violin Concerto by Barber and the UK premiere of María Huld Markan Sigfúsdóttir’s Oceans.

Written in the 1930’s when atonality was vying for attention, the traditional melody, rhythm, harmony and orchestration of Barber’s music was met with more than mild enthusiasm. Expansive and at times moody themes dominate in Barber’s dazzling Violin Concerto, with hints of orientalism, folk and Russian grittiness; syncopation and distinctive counter-rhythms drive an exciting narrative and virtuosity prevail at every turn. To perform the solo role tonight we’re thrilled to welcome Stella Chen. In Rossiniana, Respighi again turns to Rossini’s music as his muse. Based on four piano pieces from Sins of Old Age, Respighi colourfully repaints Rossini’s music into an orchestral suite of vibrant and expressive depths – the perfect pairing for a work which needs little introduction – Rossini’s overture to William Tell.