Benjamin Grosvenor and Oxford Philomusica

Oxford’s acclaimed professional symphony orchestra is delighted to be making its first appearance at the Barbican since 1998. Opening the concert is the world premiere of a work by the contemporary classical composer, Martyn Harry, who is based at Oxford University, where Oxford Philomusica has been Orchestra In Residence since 2002. The Philomusica has a rich history of collaborations with world-class pianists, particularly through its highly successful annual International Piano Festival and Summer Academy, and here the outstandingly talented young pianist Benjamin Grosvenor will join the Orchestra for Grieg’s enchanting Piano Concerto. The programme will conclude with Carl Orff’s famous scenic cantata Carmina Burana, opening with the gloriously dramatic ‘O Fortuna’ sung by the London Symphony Chorus. This large-scale performance, also featuring internationally renowned soloists, soprano Elena Xanthoudakis and baritone Robert Davies, promises a musically varied, thrilling and exuberant close to the evening.