BACKThe WildKat team are very excited about the range of concerts on offer in London this year after reading articles such as the Guardian’s Best classical music for 2011, so we’ve selected what we think are the top must-see performances in the first two weeks of February. Enjoy!
What? Here Come the Classics – Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Where? Fairfield Halls, Croydon
When? Wednesday 2nd February, 19:30
At the newly refurbished Fairfield Halls, experience one classical theme after another in a spectacular evening of orchestral favourites. There is something for everyone in this sensational concert. With Stephen Bell conducting and soloists Clio Gould (Violin) and Wynne Evans (tenor) this is going to be a concert not to miss. Tickets £10-£29.50.
What? Britten Sinfonia
Where? Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre
When? Wednesday 9th February, 7.30pm
Celebrated tenor and regular Britten Sinfonia collaborator Mark Padmore performs with the orchestra in a programme of some of the most beautiful English music for strings and voice.
The centrepiece of the concert is Gerald Finzi’s ‘Dies Natalis’. Modelled on Bach’s cantatas it contains a spirit and sweetness that reflects the joy and wonder of a child’s innocent perspective of the world. Padmore also sings Purcell songs as realised by Tippett, whose baroque-inspired Little Music is featured. Walton’s virtuosic and passionate Sonata for Strings provides a thrilling climax to this English string journey. Tickets range from £7 to £32 and there is also a free pre-concert talk with Mark Padmore in the Queen Elizabeth Hall at 6.15pm.
What? Adams’ Nixon in China – Met Opera Live
Where? Barbican – Cinema 1
When? Saturday 12th February, 6.00pm
Acclaimed director and longtime Adams collaborator Peter Sellars makes his Met debut with this groundbreaking 1987 work, an exploration of the human truths beyond the headlines surrounding President Nixon’s 1972 encounter with Communist China.
Baritone James Maddalena stars in the title role.
Ticket prices range from £17.50 to £25.
What? What is This Thing Called Love? – Soprano and Piano recital
Where? The Red Hedgehog, Highgate, London.
When? Monday 14th February, 19:30
“What is This Thing Called Love?” is a celebration of songs exploring the theme of love throughout the ages with composers ranging from Purcell to Porter. This is a St Valentine’s special in an intimate little venue with Christina Sampson (soprano) and Eva Maria Doroszkowska (piano) offering a moving collage of magical music to entertain and inspire even the most cynical of hearts on a cold February evening.