Conductor: Adam Laughton
Leader: Shoko Middleton
A gorgeous lunchtime programme from Wessex Strings, featuring songs and dances from across the continent.
One of Purcell’s most loved operas, The Fairy Queen, shimmers with rich orchestral passages, showcased in this selection of movements. Grieg’s lyricism shines through in two richly scored melodies for string orchestra, based on traditional Norwegian songs. Frank Bridge, A contemporary of Stanford and Elgar, is represented by his rarely heard Valse Intermezzo. Extracts from two of Puccini’s best-loved operas, Manon Lescaut and La Bohème, form the second half, with Holst’s ever popular St Paul’s Suite providing a thrilling close.
