CLASSICAL music enthusiasts will be in for a treat when the Strasbourg Philharmonic Orchestra perform at The Anvil in Basingstoke for the first time. 

The orchestra will be welcomed to the theatre in Basingstoke on Wednesday, February 14.

One of the best and oldest in France, it was founded in 1855. It’s renowned for its performances of Berlioz, and the concert opens with his rollicking portrait of a feast day in Rome.

This is followed by two emotive pieces. Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto was a breakthrough piece after years of creative block. Its passionate and romantic character has deservedly made it a favourite amongst his works. Cesar Franck’s spine-tingling symphonic poem tells the tale of an arrogant huntsman cursed to be forever hunted for riding out on a Sunday.

Basingstoke Gazette: The Strasbourg Philharmonic Orchestra

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The concert ends with two pieces by Ravel, his delicate and touching evocation of six contrasting fairy-tales, and the dizzying kaleidoscope of La Valse.

People are being encouraged to join the Strasbourg Philharmonic as they make their debut at The Anvil – a perfect treat for Valentine’s evening.

There will also be a free pre-concert talk in The Forge to discover more about the pieces being performed.

For more information and to book tickets visit anvilarts.org.uk.