Finchley Symphony Orchestra play Tchaikovsky, Richard Strauss and Dvořák

The concert under our guest conductor Robert Hodge opens with a rare opportunity to hear Dvořák’s symphonic poem ‘The Water Goblin’, based on the tragic story of a girl abducted by a malevolent goblin to be his bride.

Strauss wrote his first horn concerto when he was only 18.  A showpiece in the romantic tradition, Strauss originally hoped his father who played professionally would give the premiere, but he found it too hard – not least the many high notes - and that honour went to another.  Tackling it with us is Alexander Edmundson, co-principal horn with the LSO and a former brass finalist in the BBC Young Musician competition.

The ‘Pathétique’, perhaps Tchaikovsky’s best-loved symphony, needs no introduction.