The Rite of Spring: Inside Classical
Stravinsky’s revolutionary ballet score is the highlight in the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra’s celebration of spring from Manchester's Aviva Studios. Presented by Ben Gernon.
The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Ludovic Morlot, presents a concert celebrating spring’s extraordinary creative power as a season of renewal and rebirth, through evocative lighting and musical soundscapes, from Manchester’s Aviva Studios. Presented by Ben Gernon.
Igor Stravinsky’s ballet score The Rite of Spring, which famously incited audience uproar in its 1913 Paris premiere, is an exhilarating start to the programme. With its asymmetrical rhythms, brutal harmonies and sonic aggression, it continues to fascinate audiences today and remains one of the most influential works of the 20th century.
The UK premiere of Jessie Montgomery’s Chemiluminescence follows in calm contrast. This work for string orchestra introduces an atmosphere of contemplative beauty as science and the natural world are united through sound in the composer’s musical depiction of the creation of light from a non-light source.
An evocative programme of musical concepts, exploring spring’s explosive destruction and radiant light.
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