An opportunity not to be missed to hear Beethoven’s magnificent 9th Choral Symphony is coming to Cumbria.
The masterpiece will be performed by the Westmorland Orchestra with the Cumbria Festival Chorus and internationally renowned soloists on Saturday March 11 in Kendal.
Georgina Perkins, chair of the orchestra, said: “We have been looking forward to this concert for so long. It had been planned for March 2021 and I can hardly believe it is finally going to happen!
“It is an incredibly exhilarating piece of music to play – although part of me would love to be in the audience. I would encourage anyone who has ever thought about coming to a classical music concert to try this one out… you won’t be disappointed!”
The concert has an additional emotional element. As the powerful finale – known as Ode to Joy – reaches its thrilling climax it will be the last time that Richard Howarth conducts the Westmorland Orchestra.
He has been the music director and conductor since 2010, taking players and audiences through seldom-played works as well as instantly recognised pieces.
The soloists performing with the orchestra and chorus are Sarah Fox, Kathryn Rudge, Andrew Tortise and Samuel Snowden. They have all performed at the BBC Proms concerts and between them have career highlights from all round the world, as well as Covent Garden and Glyndebourne.
In addition to Beethoven’s 9th Symphony the programme includes Bruckner’s Os Justi and another work by Beethoven, Leonore Overture number 3.
Richard said: “I’ve always thought the orchestra plays Beethoven really well, so I can’t imagine a better way to end my tenure than with two of his finest pieces.”
The concert is at 7.30pm on Saturday March 11 at Kendal Leisure Centre. Tickets are £18 (free for young people and students) and are available from www.TicketSource.co.uk/wes and on the door. Further information can be found at www.WestmorlandOrchestra.org.uk
The Westmorland Orchestra draws players from across Cumbria and North Lancashire.
