Crossing Borders with WNO Orchestra

An inspiring journey through the rich musical tapestry of Central Europe.

Take a seat and join WNO Orchestra and WNO Music Director Tomáš Hanus as they embark on an exhilarating journey through some of Central Europe’s finest masterpiece, opening with the triumphant Overture from Smetana’s The Bartered Bride. Celebrating the nationalistic pride he kindled in Czechia during the 19th century, this piece is fizzing with energy and rhythmic folk flavouring.

Depending on where you’ll be attending the concert, you’ll then either travel West to Germany and be captivated by the richness of the greatest German Violin Concerto of all time, Beethoven’s Violin Concerto, or travel South to neighbouring Austria, where you’ll enjoy the lyricism and witty dialogue of Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in A Major*.

Bringing the expedition to a close, an immersive encounter with the world of high German Romanticism. Schumann’s Symphony No 4 is one continuous drama with brooding phrases and accumulating energy, infused with the famous ‘Clara Theme’, in honour of his wife.

Programme varies from location to location. In Brecon, Southampton and Aberystwyth, the programme will include Smetana, Beethoven, Schumann and soloist David Adams. In Bangor, Cardiff and Newtown, the programme will include Smetana, Mozart, Schumann and soloist Thomas Verity.