Music spanning the centuries

Finchley Symphony Orchestra

Our concert is an evening of classical and neo-classical gems from the 18th and 20th centuries, conducted by Christopher Stark.

Prokofiev wrote the Overture on Hebrew Themes in New York after fleeing Russia.  He originally arranged the catchy klezmer tunes for a group of friends playing clarinet, string quartet and piano but later arranged this version for small orchestra.

Stravinsky’s inspiration for the ballet ‘Pulcinella’ was a collection of 18th century music once thought to be by Pergolesi.  He adapted this to a more modern style with the use of modern rhythms and harmonies to give a unique flavour.  We will play the Suite he derived from the full ballet music.

The twelve ‘London’ symphonies are the culmination of Haydn’s development of this form.  Number 99 in E flat well displays his characteristic cheerfulness and wit.