What's On

Programme

Simon Parkin Three pieces for cello and piano
J S Bach Goldberg Variations (selected) with jazz repeats by Simon Parkin
Frank Bridge Sonata for cello and piano
J S Bach Goldberg Variations (selected) with jazz repeats by Simon Parkin
Simon Parkin Piano Trio
Paul Desmond arr Parkin Take Five
Eric Clapton arr Parkin Layla
George Gershwin arr Parkin I Got Rhythm

Performers

Hannah Roberts cello
Simon Parkin piano
With guests: Caroline Pether violin and Cellists from the RNCM School of Strings

About

Acclaimed in The Strad as ‘a duo of rare ensemble and musical intelligence‘, the husband-and-wife artistic partnership of Hannah Roberts and Simon Parkin has gained great critical and public success both at home and abroad.

No strangers to the RNCM, both have a long relationship with the College. Hannah Roberts is Professor of Cello, appearing recently as a soloist for Dvořák’s Cello Concerto with Manchester Camerata. Simon Parkin is a sought-after composer, arranger, and pianist, alongside his role as Deputy Head of Undergraduate Programmes.

The duo showcases how versatile a recital can be, through more traditional works paired with arrangements of favourites we know and love by Gershwin and Clapton.

Highlights also include Parkin’s reimagined Goldberg Variations, shown here in a new light. With added jazz-inspired repeats, Parkin offers a modern take on the improvisatory baroque tradition, drawing on swing, funk and even Reggae.

Tickets

Full Price £14
Student/Under 26 £10
Affordable £10

Promoted by RNCM.

Affordable Tickets

We want everyone to have the opportunity to engage with our performances. That’s why across the 2026/27 season we’ve introduced a limited number of Affordable Tickets, available to anyone who feels they may benefit from this option. More information is available on our How to Book page.

This event will end at approximately 9.15pm.