Grampian Concert Orchestra is pleased to be back in the gorgeous surroundings of the recently renovated Mannofield Church for a varied programme of light classics to get you in the mood for spring.
Victor Herbert was born in Guernsey in the late 19th century, but lived much of his life in the United States, during which time he composed light operattas including one called 'Babes in Toyland', which was later picked up by Laurel and Hardy and made into a short film of the same name, featuring Herbert's music. March of the Toy Soldiers is from the climax of the film when the toy soldiers defeat the evil bogeymen and save the day!
Born in England, the composer Delius travelled widely and his compositions were inspired by many different experiences in his life. But one of his most evocative pieces is "On Hearing the First Cuckoo in Spring" which needs no further explanation. Just close your eyes and allow yourself to be transported through the meadow and down the river.
French composer Gounod is probably most well-known for his opera score 'Faust', but he also wrote some delightful short pieces including his "Petite Symphonie" for wind instruments. We will complement this work with a short piece for strings which you might not know, by Finnish composer Sibelius. Called 'Rakastava' (The Lover) it is at times light and beautiful and then also in places deeply emotional.
Sergei Prokofiev began work on his Haydn-esque 'Classical' Symphony No 1 in 1916, but he wrote most of it in 1917 while on holiday in the country. It has rightly become one of his most popular works.
Please come along and enjoy an hour of music with us to celebrate Spring. There will be complimentary soft drinks available afterwards.