London Philharmonic Orchestra

Ludwig Van Beethoven: Overture, Fidelio
Arnold Schoenberg: Ode to Napoleon for reciter, piano & string quartet, Op.41
Arnold Schoenberg: A Survivor from Warsaw, Op.46
Interval
Luigi Nono: Julius Fucik
segue into
Ludwig Van Beethoven: Symphony No.5

Jurowski conducts a powerful and gripping programme of Beethoven and Schoenberg.

Few composers have done more to overthrow tyrannies both real and creative than Schoenberg and Beethoven. Images of the misuse of power pervade Schoenberg's outspoken Ode to Napoleon Bonaparte, a cutting, visceral creation after Byron that was created in political circumstances but more functionally designed to mark 20 years of the League of Composers.

Most members of that organisation had been freed to some extent by the theoretical upheavals of Beethoven, whose mighty Fifth Symphony changed the way music was conceived - in the head and on the stage. Freedom reigns in this evening of powerful musical gestures.

Free pre-concert event, 6.15pm until 6.45pm, Royal Festival Hall
Composer and academic Silvina Milstein looks at the works of Nono and Schoenberg.

Free post-concert event on The Clore Ballroom Floor at Royal Festival Hall
Artists involved in the performance will discuss the evening's programme.

London Philharmonic Orchestra
Vladimir Jurowski conductor
Sir Thomas Allen narrator
Annabel Arden director
Gentlemen of the London Philharmonic Choir