Ely Sinfonia will perform a programme of music called From Russia With Love at Ely Cathedral on April 28.
With its rich, vibrant culture, Russia has produced some of the most exciting music ever written. Among the most well-known are Khachaturian’s Spartacus and Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, both of which have rightly won their place in the classical hall of fame.
They will be the centrepieces of the concert which starts at 7.30pm.
Spartacus is one of the most recognisable of all Russian pieces. It was made famous as the theme tune to The Onedin Line, which hit British TV screens around 40 years ago and has been repeated almost continuously ever since.
But it was originally composed as a political ballet, in which ordinary people rise up and overthrow their oppressors.
Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet has a rightful claim to be the world’s greatest ballet. Not only does it contain much of the composer’s finest and most appealing music, but it is also considered one of the most exceptional musical interpretations of Shakespeare.
Its lush melodies have been the inspiration for many youngsters taking up a musical instrument and it is easily recognised from the many TV commercials using it as background music.
“We have long wanted to perform these glorious masterpieces,” said Steve Bingham, who is the orchestra’s conductor and artistic director.
“Russian composers are second to none in the emotion they convey through their music.
“The third piece on our programme, Tchaikovsky’s second symphony, the Little Russian, is based on series of Ukranian folk songs, which are also full of emotion and longing for a beloved homeland.”
Since its foundation in 1999, Ely Sinfonia has become one of the region’s best respected amateur orchestras, drawing players and audiences from across the area.
It plays everything from mainstream to modern works, including special commissions, and frequently collaborates with other local groups.
Tickets are now on sale from Ely Cathedral Box Office and cost £25, £20 or £15 (reserved) or £8.50 (unreserved); concessions are £15 in the £20 seats. To book call 01353 660349 or email box.office@elycathedral.org, or go to www.elycathedral.org
To find out more about Ely Sinfonia, visit www.elysinfonia.co.uk. To ask about joining, call 01353 721007 or email publicity@elysinfonia.co.uk
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