Directed by the orchestra Leader & Principal Stephanie Gonley, this concert explores two exciting contemporary works inspired by the seasons.

Max Richter is one of foremost figures on the contemporary music scene and performances of his reimagining of The Four Seasons are not to be missed. Combining the old with the new with skill, style and sophistication this piece is a respectful reinvention of the themes and ideas behind Vivaldi’s original work to allow listeners to hear it in a different light.

Our second exploration of the seasons comes from Astor Piazzolla, an Argentinian composer of great acclaim whose works are often full of life, verve and energy. The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires is not so directly inspired by Vivaldi’s Four Seasons but principally in title alone. The original work is scored for violin and cello soloist, but this exciting new arrangement by soloist Trey Lee puts the emphasis solo on the cello.

Written over a five-year period, Piazzolla wrote each movement as separate pieces which were subsequently combined to create a fuller work that can be raucous and outrageous, but also beautifully tender.