Because he was working on two other compositions at the time, Mozart’s Magic Flute Overture was completed only two days before its premiere, but it is another masterpiece. The opera drew on various fairy stories that were popular at the time and was a huge success with audiences. The overture is a rich and vibrant example of Mozart’s genius in turning a simple theme into a sparkling jewel.
We don’t often get the chance to hear the beautiful music of Pamela Harrison whose life spanned much of the 20th Century. Sadly, her work has been largely neglected, so please don’t miss this rare opportunity to enjoy the enchanting Suite for Timothy that she wrote to celebrate the first birthday of her son.
Haydn’s Symphony No.101 is commonly known as “The Clock” because of the ‘ticking’ rhythm throughout the second movement. The symphony was extremely popular with the audience at its premiere – but the critics were sceptical, dismissing his exciting innovations as mistakes or in poor taste. Time has clearly proved the critics wrong because it is still much loved over 200 years later, so be sure not to miss this lavish dramatic and inspiring symphony.
