In the summer of 1914, Gustav Holst heard the ominous rhythms of approaching war 鈥� just as, in 1939, Benjamin Britten sensed storm clouds gathering over the Age of Anxiety. But there鈥檚 more to Holst鈥檚 'The Planets' than the thunder of Mars, and there鈥檚 more to Britten鈥檚 Violin Concerto than a glittering act of defiance written under the shadow of conflict. The Canadian virtuoso James Ehnes has both the skill and the emotional insight to explore every facet of this great British concerto, while guest conductor James Feddeck offers a compellingly fresh angle on Holst鈥檚 musical journey into the infinite. Barber鈥檚 wartime 'Second Essay', meanwhile, sets the terms of engagement with an eloquence that can鈥檛 be ignored.
Prelude: 6.45pm in the Recital Room
Dr Kate Kennedy, author of 'Literary Britten', introduces the composer鈥檚 Violin Concerto (free to ticket-holders, subject to seating availability). .
The concert will be recorded for future broadcast on 麻豆官网首页入口 Radio 3.