Birdsong, rushing streams, countryside dances and a musical thunderstorm: join London Incidental Orchestra for Beethoven Unwrapped: Pastoral, a relaxed, story-led classical concert at the beautiful St Gabriel’s Church in Pimlico.
This is Beethoven for the curious. Before performing Symphony No. 6, “Pastoral”, in full, conductor Alexander Conway will guide the audience through the music, revealing the stories, natural imagery, structure and hidden details behind one of Beethoven’s most loved works.
Expect live demonstrations from the orchestra, humour, context and a warm, informal atmosphere. There is no dress code, and no prior classical knowledge is needed. Whether you are a regular concert-goer or completely new to classical music, this is a fresh, friendly and accessible way to experience Beethoven live.
The evening opens with Beethoven’s dramatic Egmont Overture, followed by an Unwrapped introduction to the Pastoral Symphony and a full performance by the London Incidental Orchestra’s 40-piece orchestra.
There will also be an audience-conductor raffle in support of Mind UK, giving one audience member the chance to take centre stage and conduct the orchestra.
A well-stocked bar will be available before the concert, during the interval and after the performance.
Previous LIO concerts have been described as having “the energy of a comedy set mixed with a live gig and a dash of a history lesson thrown in”. After a previous Beethoven concert, John Suchet of Classic FM said: “It’s hard to do anything original with Beethoven… but you’ve managed it!”
All profits go to Mind UK, working to make sure nobody has to face a mental health problem alone.
You can book classical ensembles in London for recitals and private events in London.
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