What's On

On sale Thu 13 Nov 2025 at 10am

Programme

Thomas Tallis arr James Manson O sacrum convivium
Andrzej Panufnik Lullaby
Béla Bartók Divertimento for String Orchestra (movement 3)*
Samuel Barber Adagio for Strings
Héloïse Werner Incantation in 4 parts
Richard Strauss arr Simon Parkin Beim Schlafengehen from Four Last Songs^
Ottorino Respighi Passacaglia from Ancient Airs and Dances Suite No 3
Bart Howard arr James Manson Fly Me to the Moon

Performers

Chris Hoyle, Catherine Yates directors, Gina McCormack director*
Julius Mauldin conductor
Esther Shea soprano^
RNCM String Ensemble

About

Part of RNCM Strings Festival

Our first-year string students bring their energy and passion to a rich and varied programme spanning music from the Renaissance through to the jazz era.

The performance opens with an arrangement of Thomas Tallis’ O sacrum convivium, an exquisitely deep and mystical sound world that sets the tone with its colourful textures, subtle key shifts, and emotional depth.

The journey then unfolds through an eclectic mix of pieces, including Barber’s profound and expressive Adagio for Strings. The work achieved instant acclaim and was immortalised by Arturo Toscanini’s landmark recording of its premiere performance.

Along the way, RNCM Strauss Prize winner Esther Shea joins the ensemble to perform the third of Strauss’s Four Last Songs, followed by Respighi’s lute-inspired suite. A vibrant conclusion unveils an uplifting arrangement of Fly Me to the Moon, made famous by Frank Sinatra.

The RNCM Strings Festival celebrates the versatility, beauty, and brilliance of string music through a weekend of inspiring performances and collaborations.

Tickets

Full Price £13
Student/Under 26 £8

Promoted by RNCM.

Festival Discount

Automatically receive 20% off at least one ticket per event when you book two or more events in the RNCM Strings Festival (excluding free events). Please note that this discount only applies when booking events as part of a single transaction. This offer cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.

This event will end at approximately 3pm.