Joseph Tong and Ben Costello join forces in a programme of music for piano duo featuring works by Richard Rodney Bennett, William Mathias, Madeleine Dring and the world premiere of Ben's transcription of the suite from Constant Lambert's ballet Horoscope. This transcription for two pianos has been produced with the approval and kind support of the Lambert estate. Horoscope is arguably one of the greatest British ballet scores of the 20th century, a reflective product of the remarkable and unique creative partnership between two of the most towering figures in the British ballet world at that time, Lambert and Frederick Ashton. The ballet enjoyed huge success at its premiere in 1938, before war in Europe helped scupper its chances of properly entering the repertoire. At the first production the principal dancers included Michael Somes, Pamela May, and the ballet’s dedicatee Margot Fonteyn.
Joseph Tong gives regular recitals throughout the UK and abroad. His CD of works by Robert Schumann for the Quartz label was awarded Instrumental Choice of the month by BBC Music Magazine in 2019. His ongoing Sibelius recording project has seen two CDs released on the Quartz label to critical acclaim, and he has made several concert visits to Finland. Joseph was elected an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music (ARAM) in 2008 and is a visiting piano teacher at Wells Cathedral School and Hampton School.
Ben Costello is a freelance musical director, singing coach, accompanist, adjudicator, and examiner, working internationally. He is also Artistic Director of Thames Concerts. He has been MD on numerous productions and has taught singing at most of the major London performing arts colleges. Born in London, Ben read Music at Kingston University and the London College of Music, subsequently joining the College’s faculty as resident musical director and vocal coach. He is a Liveryman and on the Court of the Worshipful Company of Musicians.
This concert will last for approximately one hour.