EAST MEETS WEST AS WREXHAM ORCHESTRA SET TO STAGE FIRST CONCERT OF 2025

Rehearsals are in full swing as a Wrexham orchestra prepares to stage its first concert of 2025.

Wrexham Symphony Orchestra will stage the concert entitled "East Meets West" at the William Aston Hall, Wrexham University on Sunday 23rd February 2025 at 2.30pm.

The concert will feature music by composers Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Witold Lutoslawski, Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland. The programme will include well known pieces including Tchaikovsky's 'Violin Concerto in D Major', Three Dance Episodes from Bernstein's 'On the Town' and Four Dance Episodes from Copland's 'Rodeo'.

The orchestra will be joined by guest conductor Stephen Threlfall and soloist Elizaveta Saul. Formally Director of Music at Chetham's School of Music, Stephen Threlfall is a highly acclaimed conductor with many years' experience directing orchestras and ensembles. A passionate and dedicated musician committed to bring out the best from his players enabling them to deliver unforgettable musical experiences, Stephen is well known for his ability to communicate with musicians and audiences alike. He has received praise for his approach from Nina Bernstein, daughter of celebrated conductor and composer Leonard Bernstein (whose work features in the concert) who said of Stephen "Stephen Threlfall reminded me so much of my father as he moulded their performances, always leading with love, never fear."    

The orchestra's guest solo artist, violinist Elizaveta Saul has given recitals throughout the UK, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, France and Norway, with her UK appearances including Wigmore Hall, The Royal Festival Hall and The Royal Albert Hall. Her concerto engagements include Croydon Symphony, Guildford Symphony, Chetham’s Symphony and Belarussian Symphony and Chamber orchestras. Elizaveta is a recent graduate of the Royal College of Music where she completed both her Bachelor of Music and Master of Performance degrees, achieving First Class and Distinction respectively. As an active chamber music performer, she has collaborated with world class musicians such as Peter Frankl and worked alongside Carducci and Harlem quartets, as well as being a member of LGT Young Soloists. She has appeared as the leader of RCM Symphony, Opera and Philharmonic orchestras on numerous occasions and recorded at Abbey Road Studios.

Speaking about the concert, Matthew Ellis, the Chairman of Wrexham Symphony Orchestra said:

"We are delighted to be staging our first concert of the year at the William Aston Hall and are looking forward to performing such an exciting and varied programme.  We are pleased to welcome our guest conductor Stephen Threlfall back to the podium and talented young soloist, violinist Elizaveta Saul for what promises to be a dynamic and thrilling concert."

Full details of Wrexham Symphony Orchestra's concert at William Aston Hall can be found at: 

www.wrexhamorch.co.uk 

...where tickets can be booked online.

Pictured - Solo Violinist Elizaveta Saul.