Saturday 19 Jan 2019, 6.15pmDe Montfort Hall, Leicester

Venue Box Office: 0116 233 3111

Timothy Walden cello

Britten Cello Suite No. 3, Mournful Song

Birchall Sonata for Solo Cello

Bach Cello Suite No. 1

Join the Philharmonia's Principal Cello Timothy Walden, as he performs an intimate solo recital ahead of the full Orchestra's main evening performance.

Opening with the iconic C major prelude, Bach's Cello Suite No. 1 is one of the best-loved works written for cello, filled with virtuosic moments and evocative melodies.

Britten composed his Third Cello Suite inspired by legendary cellist Mstislav Rostropovich's performance of the Bach suites. Combining elements of Bach with Russian melodies, tonight's performance is of the final, most tender movement, Mournful Song.

But first, a world premiere written especially for tonight's event: composed by Philharmonia cellist Richard Birchall, this is a unique chance to hear a musician writing for their own instrument. Richard and Timothy will introduce the new piece from the stage.

The concert is free and open to all. Audience members are invited to make a contribution to the event at the point of entry on a ‘pay what you can’ basis.