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Keele Philharmonic Orchestra
21 December 2013 19.30 Keele University Chapel
A whole evening of French music, and not a Christmas carol in sight!
The centrepiece is that very rare beast, a concerto for Harpsichord. Not from the Baroque, but from the early 20th Century – when the instrument had essentially died out, a musical dinosaur. Poulenc's surprising choice of orchestral accompaniment for this 'quiet' instrument includes brass and lots of percussion, so be prepared to be be surprised as well as delighted. Also on the menu for the evening is Ravel's versions for orchestra of two wonderfully tuneful Debussy piano pieces (Sarabande & Danse) and some of the most steamy, vibrant, colourful music to come from any composer's pen – Bizet's Carmen.
Keele Philharmonic Orchestra (KPO) was founded in 1987 by the Keele University Music Department and became an independent body in 1995. KPOC expanded further in 2001 when the choir was reformed. The orchestra is run by a student committee and is under new musical leadership as Tom Hammond now joins the department as Conducting Fellow. Tom is an experienced conductor of orchestras and choirs who works with top-flight professionals, music conservatoires and leading non-professional ensembles in the UK.
Programme:
Claude Debussy orch. Maurice Ravel Sarabande and Danse
Francis Poulenc Concert champêtre for harpsichord and orchestra
Harpsichord: Simon Willoughby
Georges Bizet Suites from Carmen
Image credit: Chris Redgrave
Tickets: £6 adults, £4 concessions (under 18's, students, disabled and senior citizens)
To book tickets contact the Box Office or
For Further Details Contact
Box Office: 01782 734340
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