What's On
Manchester Contemporary Orchestra
David Fennessy In Focus
Wednesday 29 April 2026, 7.30pm
RNCM Concert Hall
Programme to include:
David Fennessy The Riot Act
Plus new works by RNCM composers
Sophia Hurst
Amy Tyson
Colin Wu
David Bicarregui
Geng Ruoyu
Abigail Yang
Performers
Mark Heron, Andre Chan, Rosina Flueckiger, Elisabeth Streichert, Davide Trolton conductors
Marie Schreer leader
Joseph Buckmaster tenor
Manchester Contemporary Orchestra
About
Part of In Focus.
Across three events each year, Manchester Contemporary Orchestra offers a front-row seat to fearless, original music fresh off the page, shaped by a city and conservatoire rooted in the radical legacy of the Manchester School.
No longer confined to traditional orchestral formats, today’s composers explore a wider range of ensemble configurations, often incorporating electronics and expanded instrumentation. Manchester Contemporary Orchestra mirrors this shift, providing a dynamic platform for students to experiment with large-scale forces in new and unexpected ways.
Inspiration for this event comes from visiting composer and performer David Fennessy, who joins the RNCM as part of our In Focus series. The orchestra opens with his Riot Act – a response to the use of the Act itself and the abuse of power that can follow in its wake.
Photo credit: Meabh Noonan
Tickets
Free admission, ticket required
Promoted by RNCM.
This event will end at approximately 9pm.

