Wednesday 29 April

Sala Teatro

Camerata Bern
Maria Włoszczowska
violin and conductor

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)
Cavatina from String Quartet No. 13 in B flat major, Op. 130 (arrangement for string orchestra)

Hildegard von Bingen (1098–1179)
Rex noster promptus est
O virtus sapientiae

(arrangement for string orchestra by James Weeks)
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750)
Concerto for violin, strings and basso continuo in D minor, BWV 1052R

***

Thomas Adès (b. 1971)
O Albion (arrangement for string orchestra)

Frank Bridge (1879–1941)
Lament for string orchestra, H. 117

Benjamin Britten (1913–1976)
Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge for string orchestra

The concert Albion brings together different eras and styles in a fascinating dialogue between 20th-century British music and the Germanic tradition. From Beethoven's lyricism to Hildegard von Bingen's spirituality, from Bach's Baroque virtuosity to Britten's modernism, the programme explores the musical continuity between past and present. Leading this experience is Maria Włoszczowska, in the dual role of conductor of the Camerata Bern and solo violinist.

Albion unfolds like a musical mosaic that brings together different eras and sensibilities in a listening experience characterised by lyricism, contemplation and expressive drama. It begins with Beethoven's Cavatina, which stands out for its meditative character. This is followed by the medieval music of Hildegard von Bingen, reworked by James Weeks. In Bach's Violin Concerto in D minor, the Baroque counterpoint reaches heights of extraordinary intensity, while Adès' O Albion enriches the programme with an intimate and introspective dimension. Frank Bridge's Lament expresses a subtle and profound sorrow, while Britten's Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge close the concert with a brilliant tribute to his master. Under the baton of Maria Włoszczowska, a Polish violinist of great versatility and interpretative sensitivity, the Camerata Bern masterfully renders the richness and depth of a repertoire that continues to reveal new meanings and connections over time.

Loading...