BBC National Orchestra of Wales I: Colin Currie

Unstoppable momentum from BBC National Orchestra of Wales in a programme of electrifying orchestral works, including a world premiere.

“You know how it is when someone asks you to ride in a terrific sports car, and then you wish you hadn’t?” This is John Adams on his famous Short ride in a fast machine. It is spirited and utterly joyful – with an exhilarating touch of danger.

The first movement of Shostakovich’s Symphony No.10 feels like a long ride in a machine of a very different kind: political, oppressive, potentially deadly. It was premiered in 1953, a few months after the death of Stalin, but conceived during the fear and terrible uncertainty of his reign. The mighty opener is followed by furious march, a macabre waltz, and a conclusion in which Shostakovich hammers out his own musical motto in a howl of defiance.

Percussionist Colin Currie has collaborated with many contemporary composers, keen as always to expand the solo percussion repertoire. The prospect of Tansy Davies’ new Percussion Concerto is mouthwatering indeed.

BBC National Orchestra of Wales
Colin Currie percussion
Kevin John Edusei conductor

John Adams:: Short Ride in a Fast Machine (5’)
Tansy Davies:: Earthworks, for percussion and orchestra (world premiere) (25’)
Shostakovich:: Symphony No.10 in E minor, Op.93 (60’)

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Tansy Davies’ Earthworks is a co-commission by Britten Pears Arts, kindly supported by the Maria Björnson Memorial Fund, with Residentie Orkest Den Haag, and with the support of an anonymous donor.

This concert is kindly supported by the Commissioning Circle: The Nicholas Berwin Charitable Trust, The Cuddigan Oliver Trust, Matthew Greenburgh and Helen Payne, and Grant and Caroline Masom.

This performance is being broadcast live by BBC Radio 3 and will be available afterwards on BBC Sounds.