The National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine has long been one of the most distinguished European orchestras, achieving worldwide recognition through its many international tours which include Australia, the US, Europe and Asia.

It has announced it will return to the UK for the first time in over 20 years this autumn with a rich programme of music by Richard Strauss, Bruch, Sibelius, and Ukrainian composer Borys Lyatoshynsky.

Richard Strauss is most well-known for his collection of great tone poems, of which Don Juan is perhaps the most exuberant and best loved by concert audiences. Composed in 1888, it is a work by a young man at the top of his form; a life-affirming inclusion in this programme.

Bruch belongs to that small group of composers who are really only known for one work – the Violin Concerto in G minor. But what a work it is, perhaps the most performed of all violin concertos, simply – and justifiably – because it is beloved by audiences the world over for its poetic beauty, deeply moving melodies and elegant musicality. Almost all violinists include this great Concerto in their repertoire and with good reason.

Sibelius wrote his patriotic Finlandia in response to the Russian invasion of his own beloved country. It is therefore understandable that Ukrainian musicians identify with this work of resolute defiance. It is aptly chosen for inclusion in this programme and we look forward to the NSOU’s heartfelt performance.

Borys Lyatoshynsky who died in 1968 is regarded as the father of Ukrainian contemporary music. His Second Symphony is a particularly fine work and in its dramatic accessibility is a major statement of Ukrainian national solidarity.

‘We are deeply grateful to the UK venues and tour promoters who are working with us to ensure this ambitious tour happens. We can’t wait to return to the UK after more than two decades and have the opportunity to perform to UK audiences all over the country.’ (Alexander Hornostai, NSOU managing director and producer)