What's On Guide April - August 2020 by Liverpool Philharmonic

What’s On

Featuring Blick Bassy / Wizard of Oz: Film with Live Orchestra / Peggy Seeger / Alistair McGowan / Josh Widdicombe / The Shires / Pink Martini

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Image Blick Bassy / Page 17

April – August 2020

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Contents Feature – Summer Concerts – Page 3 Contemporary Music – Page 4 Music Room – Page 8 Family & Variety – Page 24 Talks, Tours & Taking Part – Page 31 Classical Music – Page 35 Film – Page 44 Comedy & Spoken Word – Page 47 What’s On Diary – Page 49

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India Electric Co. Tuesday 28 April 8pm £15, £12

Sometimes folk, sometimes not. India Electric Company use traditional instruments in contemporary styles to explore diverse themes from Eastern Europe, Irish traditions and modern urban alienation to end up with something ‘quirky and glittery - a veritable musical magpie’s nest.’ (BBC Radio 3).

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Dean Friedman Wednesday 29 April 8pm £31, £28

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Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company

Youth Company Session Band Thursday 30 April 6pm Free (tickets must be booked in advance)

Following his sold-out 40th anniversary tour, Dean Friedman returns to the stage armed with a stunning collection of his insightful and compelling, true-to-life ‘story songs’ - songs of pathos and humour that deal with family, friends, neighbours, work and the seemingly trivial, yet ultimately essential stuff of everyday life.

Enjoy contemporary music from rock and pop, to film and video game music with the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company Session Band, led by Andy Stott, Musical Director for the ever-popular RNCM Session Orchestra. Showcasing the versatility and talent of the Youth Company musicians, this concert is sure to have something for everyone to enjoy!

Just You, Just Me

Jacqui Dankworth & Charlie Wood Friday 1 May 8pm £26, £23

Multi award-winning vocalist, Jacqui Dankworth is joined by acclaimed American pianist-vocalist, Charlie Wood, for a unique concert of duets. Inspired by some of the great musical partnerships, such as Ray Charles and Betty Carter, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, and Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn - the concert will feature numbers including ‘Alone Together’, ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing’, ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’ and ‘You’ve Got a Friend’.

Titanic Queen of the Ocean

The Mersey Rigger Saturday 2 May 8pm £15, £12

Titanic Queen of the Ocean takes the audience on a carefully crafted and poignant journey from the elation and euphoria surrounding Titanic’s ambitious commencement, to the pity and sorrow following its disastrous end. The set of sixteen songs tells the story of the infamous vessel from its inception to the inquiries which followed its loss.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

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Martha Tilston Sunday 3 May 8pm £18, £15

Martha Tilston has carved her niche in the English modern folk scene with sharp, original songs that dissect the modern world and established herself as a renowned artist. Her live performances take you from stripped down folk arrangements to textural electronica, sparkling melodies and her beautiful crystal clear vocals, often stepping off stage to sing un-accompanied amongst the audience. ‘Sharp, original songs that dissect the modern world. She captures both the harshness and enchantment of life’ – The Guardian

Alvin Youngblood Hart Tuesday 5 May 8pm £15, £12

Known as a ‘musician’s musician’, Grammy award-winner Alvin Youngblood Hart’s praises have been sung by everyone from Bob Dylan to guitar gods Eric Clapton and Mick Taylor. After two decades on the road, Alvin continues to delight audiences worldwide, as both a solo performer or with the eternally rockin’ Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Muscle Theory.

Solo Piano Performance of Inversions

Belinda O’Hooley Friday 8 May 8pm £17, £14

Grace Petrie Saturday 9 May 8pm £14

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Belinda O’Hooley is an exceptionally gifted pianist, singer, songwriter, and composer and is half of four time BBC Radio 2 Folk Award nominees O’Hooley & Tidow. Inversions, Belinda’s brand new album, showcases pieces inspired by the songs her father inherited from a long line of male musicians in the hills of the West coast of rural Ireland.

Grace Petrie’s unique takes on life, love and politics, and the warmth and wit with which they are delivered, have won over audiences everywhere, across the alternative, folk, political and comedy scenes. She’s toured with Billy Bragg and Frank Turner, supported comedians Robin Ince and Josie Long, and collaborated with Leon Rosselson, Roy Bailey and Peggy Seeger.

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LightNight Friday 15 May 5pm Free

A Dozen Roses - A Love Story: The Installation A Dozen Roses - A Love Story is a visual and audio installation based on emerging spoken word artist TEE’s debut EP. The seven track EP centres around a twisted love story that tackles themes of self-love, belonging, mental health and vulnerability. Commissioned by LightNight, the installation is a physical manifestation of the music, allowing you to experience the emotions, sounds, sights and soul of this project through performance, art, film, discussion and a Q&A session. TEE is a spoken word/rap artist and multi-instrumentalist with influences ranging from Kanye West to H.E.R to Dave.

MAZ Saturday 16 May 8pm £17, £14

With an official WOMEX17 selection and 16 top Canadian award nominations, MAZ’s music has proven its category-defying appeal. With their third album ID, they celebrate Quebec’s traditional music while embracing modern streams in a flow of folk, jazz and electro. Join leader Marc Maziade and his crew for a moment of complicity and intensity.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

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Music Room Following the success of his piano album, Alistair McGowan presents his brand new show, combining his talents as master impressionist and comedian with his new-found talent as a classical pianist. Join Alistair as he plays Glass, Chopin, Gershwin, Grieg, Debussy and more - expect a lot of beautiful music (with the odd mistake!) and a sprinkling of his trademark impressions.

Alistair McGowan Sunday 17 May 7.30pm £28, £25

The First Farewell Tour

Peggy Seeger with Calum MacColl Monday 18 May 8pm £23, £20

The charismatic singer-songwriter Peggy Seeger makes a welcome return to Music Room, with her son Ewan MacColl, for a glorious evening of up-close performance. Expect to hear some of Peggy’s and Ewan’s most loved songs, readings from Peggy’s award-winning memoir The First Time Ever, plenty of audience participation and lots of relaxed family banter.

Never Too Late - 70th Birthday Tour

Tom Robinson Tuesday 19 May 8pm £21

Veteran broadcaster and songwriter Tom Robinson marks 70 years on the planet by embarking on a month-long tour with his incendiary live band playing highlights from his own 45 year career in music. Featuring songs co-written with Elton John and Peter Gabriel, unexpected comeback hits of the 1980s, and the punk-era classics that launched his career. This is a standing event.

Johnny McEvoy Friday 22 May 8pm £25, £22

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Johnny McEvoy’s big break came in late 1966 when he recorded a song called ‘Mursheen Durkin’, an old ballad from the west of Ireland, and went on to top the charts at No.1 for three consecutive weeks. His first tour of the United States involved seven weeks of concerts, including a stop at the world famous Carnegie Hall in New York.

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Africa Oyé

Blick Bassy Monday 25 May 8pm £17, £14

Imagine an African artist with the tenderly subversive touch of Bon Iver, the haunting falsetto of Skip James, the razor-like mind of Akala, and the inventiveness of Moses Sumney. You’ve just imagined Blick Bassy. In the slipstream of his acclaimed album Akö, Blick Bassy delivers 1958, a defiant tribute to the heroes who fought and died for the independence of his native Cameroon. Its focus is specific, but its themes – the bondage of neo-colonialism, the need for heroes, the relevance of history and the search for the true identity – are universal. ‘One of Africa’s most inventive and distinctive singer-songwriters’ – The Guardian HHHH

Danni Nicholls Wednesday 27 May 8pm £15, £12

Fairport Convention Thursday 28 May 8pm £28, £25

Singer-songwriter Danni Nicholls’ vibrant, spell binding performances are guaranteed to melt your heart into the soles of your boots. Nominated consecutively for an Americana Music Association UK Award (‘UK Album of the Year’ and ‘UK Artist of the Year’), her passionate delivery, captivating velvet voice and charmingly engaging between-song banter compel you to fall under her spell.

Fairport Convention will present a mix of long-established favourites and surprises from albums old and new, including Full House which was released 50 years ago this year. Together for half a century, the band were awarded a BBC ‘Lifetime Achievement’ Award and BBC Radio 2 listeners voted their Liege & Lief album ‘The Most Influential Folk Album of All Time’.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

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The Spinners Legends Friday 29 May 8pm Saturday 30 May 8pm £18, £15

After two sold out shows in both 2018 and 2019, Hughie Jones and Mick Groves are reunited once again as The Spinners Legends for two more shows in Music Room, in their Liverpool home. For Spinners fans, old and new, this annual get together is unmissable!

Imar Sunday 31 May 8pm £17, £14

With a line-up featuring members of Mànran, RURA, Talisk and Barrule, instrumental firebrands Ímar have scored a BBC Radio 2 Folk Award and topped the iTunes World Music Chart with their second album Avalanche. The band’s formation embodies a potent reconnection with its members formative years, dating back long before their camaraderie around Glasgow’s justly celebrated session scene.

Close Up Concert

Jonathan Aasgaard cello Monday 1 June 8pm £20, £17

Henri Dutilleux Trois strophes sur le nom de Sacher Steve Reich Counterpoints with tape Ben Hackbarth New work for cello and live electronics Giovanni Sollima Hell 1 for cello and tape Kaija Saariaho Petals for cello and live electronics Manuela Blackburn Come Closer for cello and electronics Pierre Boulez Messagesquisse for multiple cellos with film For this concert, Jonathan Aasgaard explores music written for the cello in his lifetime, including a number of works featuring versatile ways to work with electronics.

Madison Violet Wednesday 3 June 8pm £16, £13

With heart-wrenching songwriting and luscious harmonies combined with the natural storytelling of folk, the rhythms of Americana and catchy pop hooks, Madison Violet have been captivating audiences and critics alike for two decades with an impressive list of accolades in their twenty years. ‘Heart aching harmonies and tunes make Madison Violet a mustsee act.’ - The Independent

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Henry Normal Friday 5 June 8pm £16, £13

An evening of pure escape with stories, jokes and poems from writer, poet and TV and film producer Henry Normal, featuring all your favourite poems from his seven poetry collections and his A Normal… series on BBC Radio 4, which combines comedy, poetry and stories about bringing up his autistic son.

A Theatr Mwldan Production

Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita With special guests Vishtèn Saturday 6 June 2.30pm & 8pm £25, £22

In these one-off concerts, the multi-award winning duo, Welsh harpist Catrin Finch and Senegalese kora maestro Seckou Keita collaborate with Vishtèn, a powerhouse multi-instrumental trio and flagbearers for their unique Acadian musical tradition. With tight harmonies, layered foot percussion and a compelling trademark blend of fiddle, guitar, accordion, whistles, piano, bodhrán and jaw harp, Vishtèn create an expansive sound that triumphantly defies the parameters of this trio whose artistry looks forward as much as it looks back. Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita have built a formidable global reputation. They delivered a triumphant second album with SOAR in 2018, charting inspirational common ground between seemingly disparate traditions and their intoxicating, often improvised synergy captures a magical meeting of minds and talents within a borderless musical landscape.

Salt House Friday 12 June 8pm £15, £12

Salt House’s new album, Huam, solidifies their reputation as fine interpreters of words both old and new. With Huam, the trio continue their love of recording on location taking themselves to rural Argyllshire to record songs about place, politics, landscape and birds. The group’s meticulous attention to detail, shared passions and care for their craft sees Salt House soar.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

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Martin Simpson Saturday 13 June 8pm £22.50, £19.50

Lunchtime Concert

A4 Brass Quartet Monday 15 June 1pm £12, £8

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Universally acclaimed as one of the finest ever acoustic and slide guitar players, and a fine banjo-picker to boot, Martin Simpson’s solo shows bear witness to an artist at the very top of his game. Whether interpreting material from tradition or singing his own potent self-penned songs, Simpson is a remarkable storyteller: captivating and profoundly moving.

Royal Over-Seas League Ensemble Prize Winner Jonathan Bates Toccata Bernstein Overture to Candide (arr. Daniel Thomas) Kentaro Sato Tsunagari (arr. Jonathan Bates) Bartók Six Romanian Folk Dances (arr. Chris Robertson) Percy Grainger Molly on the Shore (arr. Jonathan Bates) Edward Gregson Brass Quartet No.2 J.B Arban Carnival of Venice (arr. Chris Robertson) Jonathan Bates Mists of the Mountains

The Piano Sessions

Harriet Friday 19 June 8pm £23, £20

British singer-songwriter Harriet performs intimate versions of her favourite original songs and some specially selected covers accompanied by her incredible pianist. Her self-titled debut album, recorded with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, was a personal expression of loss and love, drawing inspiration from the warmth of the 1960’s and 70’s soundscape.

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Dementia Friendly Concert

Postcards from Around the World Saturday 20 June 12.30pm & 2.30pm £12.50

Join Ensemble of St Luke’s for a selection of international music to take us on a musical journey. Repertoire will include Dvořákʼs American Quartet, Grieg’s Wedding Day at Troldhaugen and songs to join in with. A relaxed and intimate concert for people living with dementia, their friends, family and carers. Doors open 45 minutes before the concert, and the concert will last approximately one hour. All tickets include a complimentary cup of tea or coffee on arrival.

Liverpool Acoustic

Elfin Bow, Little Sparrow and Daria Kulesh

Liverpool Acoustic presents three songwriters who share a rare musical synergy and come together for the first time to showcase their magical songs and stories. Elfin Bow, Little Sparrow and Daria Kulesh, all three skilled songwriters and captivating performers, will take to the stage in the style of a song-writers circle.

Saturday 20 June 8pm £15, £12

Close Up Concert

Klezmer-ish: Dusty Road Monday 29 June 8pm Tuesday 30 June 8pm £20, £17

Thomas Verity clarinet Concettina Del Vecchio piano accordion/violin Marcel Becker double bass Robert Shepley guitar/violin Klezmer-ish come home to Music Room for their fourth consecutive season. In their travelling suitcase will be tunes from their new album Dusty Road, alongside brand new music taking you on a journey from the origins of Klezmer, gypsy jazz, tangos and bluegrass, to the present day.

Booking fees may apply - See page 51 for details

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DaDaFest Scratch Thursday 2 July 6pm Free (tickets must be booked in advance)

A unique opportunity to experience brand new, exciting work performed by musicians from Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company and DaDaFest Ensemble. Five musicians from Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company and five members from DaDaFest Ensemble have collaborated with Liverpool Philharmonic musicians Tim Jackson, Georgina Aasgaard and Jon Hering to create this new work. DaDaFest is a disability and D/deaf arts organisation based in Liverpool. Find out more about DaDaFest at dadafest.co.uk. This is a relaxed event which means you can expect a comfortable and well-lit environment. BSL will also be available for this event.

Tom Spence ‘Musical Theatre’ Friday 3 July 8pm £21, £18

Charlie Dore Trio Saturday 4 July 8pm £21, £18

Join Tom Spence as he sings the songs from some of the greatest musicals of all time, including Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, Les Miserables, Moulin Rouge, and Sunset Boulevard. With special guest vocalists and an acoustic band of exceptional musicians, this promises to be a great night of music!

Multi-award winner Charlie Dore brings a genre-defying evening of ‘intriguingly other’ eclectic, contemporary, rootsy, folk - bursting with earworms and crunchy lyrics. Joined by Gareth Huw Davies, Charlie and her long-time collaborator Julian Littman (Steeleye Span) will swap guitars, piano, mandolin, harmonium, ukulele, banjo and stories as they showcase songs from her brand new album, alongside favourites from the past seven albums.

The Last Huzzah Farewell Tour

Jamie Smith’s Mabon Friday 10 July 8pm £18, £15

After two decades of sparky jigs and slammin’ reels; stirring songs and exquisite ballads; award-winning performances, mighty banter and a faithful following of ardent fans - Mabon is hanging up its boots and going out on a high with a farewell tour. Come and catch them live while you can - this tour is The Last Huzzah!

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Ian Prowse Friday 24 July 8pm £17, £14

Frontman of Amsterdam and previously of indie cult band Pele, Ian Prowse is a musician, singer, songwriter who wears his heart on his sleeve and writes straight from the cuff. In 2019, Ian released Here I Lie - a brand new album of songs that tackle life, love, loss, death and Liverpool. Since being released, the album has racked up an impressive array of plaudits from fellow songwriters like Elvis Costello, Baz Warne (The Stranglers), Miles Hunt (The Wonder Stuff) and Damien Dempsey, and amassed top reviews from Daily Mirror, The Skinny, R2 and Louder Than War. 2020 is a big year for Ian - he’s supporting Elvis Costello on his UK tour and releasing The Story of Ian Prowse, a retrospective collection of his 30 year career, supported by an acoustic tour.

Ian Prowse and Amsterdam Saturday 25 July 8pm £18

Formed in 1999 by frontman Ian Prowse, Amsterdam cemented their place in the hearts of DJs, songwriters and music fans alike with their song ‘Does This Train Stop on Merseyside?’ in 2005. BBC Radio 1 DJ John Peel was reduced to tears every time he put the single on, openly crying live on air because of its connection with Liverpool, the city he loved. This is a standing event.

Finest Sounds of Traditional Indian Choir

Saayam Madhuram Sunday 26 July 5pm £15, £12

Bharatiya Vrund Gaan (BVG): The Indian Choir of England Shiva: The Indian Youth Choir of England Rakesh Joshi Artistic Director Bharatiya Vrund Gaan (BVG) and Shiva are the traditional Indian Choirs in the UK, managed by the BVG Trust. The choirs will present authentic songs of India including popular group songs, raga based Tarana, Vedic chants & hymns, famous poetry and songs of four seasons.

Booking fees may apply - See page 51 for details

Book now at liverpoolphil.com

Family & Variety

Family Concert

Bugs!! Sunday 5 April 2.30pm £22, £15, £12 (adult) £13, £10, £8 (child)

Rebecca Tong conductor Alasdair Malloy presenter Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra A creepy-crawly concert for all the family, featuring those insects we either love or loathe! Music includes The Wasps Overture, The Ugly Bug Ball and a Tarantella for Tarantulas as well as a unique and unforgettable version of The Flight of the Bumble Bee. You might even meet some of our bugs in the foyer before the concert! The concert lasts around one hour, fidgeting is not a problem and fancy dress is positively encouraged – so come and give it a try! Children are invited to have a go on a variety of instruments at our Instrument Petting Zoo in the Grand Foyer – available half an hour before the start of the concert.

Remembering The Oscars Wednesday 15 April 7.30pm £42.50, £37.50, £28.50, £25

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Get ready to celebrate Oscar-winning songs in this exhilarating new dance spectacular with Strictly Come Dancing’s favourite couple, Aljaz and Janette. Whether you are ‘Wishing On A Star’, ‘Swinging On A Star’ or merely dancing in the ‘City of Stars’, this incredible production will take you from Disney family favourites, through to the Golden Ages of Hollywood and Bollywood.

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Family & Variety

League of Welldoers Tuesday 5 May 2pm £18, £15

The League of Welldoers presents a variety benefit concert featuring your compere Tony Ravel plus eight other well-known Liverpool entertainers. A three hour benefit concert for all the family so don’t delay, book early to avoid disappointment and help support one of Liverpool’s oldest independent charities.

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And In The End Saturday 9 May 7.30pm Last Few Tickets Sunday 19 July 7.30pm Extra Date £70, £55, £50, £35

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and The Bootleg Beatles Richard Balcombe conductor Arrangements by Ian Stephens A Celebration of 50 Years of Abbey Road and Let It Be Experience two of the Beatles’ most iconic albums performed afresh in this special musical collaboration, adding a classical twist with beautifully arranged symphonic versions of these timeless classics. The tour marks 50 years since the release of these final two albums – Abbey Road (released 26 September 1969) and Let It Be (released 8 May 1970), and will explore the journey to the end of The Beatles – celebrating the music of this era and the legacy that endures to this day. This unique live staging will be an unmissable event for Beatles fans of all ages! Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and The Bootleg Beatles are taking the And In The End concert on tour to Northampton, Nottingham, Gateshead, Edinburgh and Glasgow. To find out more, visit liverpoolphil.com/on-tour.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

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Family & Variety Family Concert Especially for Under 5s

Blast Off! Sunday 31 May 1pm & 2.45pm Music Room £12 (adult) £8 (child)

Designed especially for our youngest audiences, these concerts are the perfect way to introduce your little ones to the sights and sounds of an orchestra. Help astronaut Claire Henry and musicians from Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra to power the rocket and blast off into space! We’ll be listening to exciting space music during the concert and the audience will be very busy helping to make the launch a success! Wriggling, dancing and exploring are all part of the 45 minute experience! Come and enjoy music through storytelling, in the informal surroundings of Music Room - easy to access, with plenty of space for prams and a baby-changing area.

Family Concert

Family Film Classics Sunday 21 June 2.30pm £22, £15, £12 (adult) £13, £10, £8 (child)

Nick Davies conductor Alasdair Malloy presenter Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Join Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra for this fabulous family concert featuring music from the best loved family films of all time! From Star Wars to Harry Potter, Mary Poppins to Frozen, we’ll be bringing the best of family film music from Hollywood to Liverpool Philharmonic Hall – we might even get you to sing along! So, pop on your fancy dress and come join us – there’ll be more film characters for you to meet in the foyer! Children are invited to have a go on a variety of instruments at our Instrument Petting Zoo in the Grand Foyer – available half an hour before the start of the concert.

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Family & Variety

In Harmony Liverpool Strings Concert Tuesday 23 June 1.30pm Free (tickets must be booked in advance)

Let’s celebrate In Harmony Liverpool – life changing orchestral music-making with the children and families of North Liverpool. Join us for an uplifting performance by over 350 young musicians aged 7-10 from In Harmony Liverpool schools in Everton and Anfield with musicians from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

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Family & Variety

Downton Abbey – Live In Concert Alastair King conductor John Lunn piano Phyllis Logan (Mrs Hughes) presenter Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Thursday 2 July 7.30pm £46, £36, £27, £22, £15

Downton Abbey Live In Concert is produced by Big Screen Live in association with Live Nation, NBC Universal and Carnival Films.

One of the biggest hits in recent television history, Downton Abbey has enthralled audiences around the world with its stories of the highs and lows of upstairs and downstairs life at the ancestral home of the Earl of Grantham. Downton Abbey - Live in Concert celebrates all the series’ favourite characters and goings on, through music and clips and the recollections of Downton’s Housekeeper, Mrs Hughes, played by Phyllis Logan. John Lunn’s distinctive music from the series is played live by Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Alastair King, with John Lunn at the piano. Mrs Hughes will appear on stage at the request of her boss, the Earl of Grantham, to look back over her time at Downton Abbey and remember the many characters that filled the home over the years: the extended family, friends, VIPs and house staff members. She will also recall various significant events in the house and beyond, each time introducing a rich collection of clips and montages from the series that illustrate the lives, loves and losses from across all six seasons. During the clips, the Orchestra will play music from the series, bringing John Lunn’s beautiful soundtrack vividly to life. Songs from Downton - including ‘I’ll Count The Days’ and ‘If You Were The Only Girl In The World’ – will be performed by guest singers, accompanied by the Orchestra. This special evening is a unique celebration of an iconic series. Join Mrs Hughes for a luxurious evening of music and memories for fans old and new. Please note this is not a film screening or film with live orchestra concert, but will include specially-created visuals, film clips and images, with live Orchestral accompaniment.

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Family & Variety

American Songbook with Gary Williams Saturday 4 July 7.30pm £46, £36, £27, £22, £15

Anthony Weeden conductor Gary Williams singer Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra An evening of Las Vegas classics and jazz standards, featuring sensational songs with swing, including ‘Luck Be A Lady’, ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Oﬀ You’, ‘Mack the Knife’, ‘The Way You Look Tonight’, ‘I’ve Got You Under My Skin’, ‘Night and Day’, ‘Singing In the Rain’, ‘You’re All The World to Me’, ‘Ain’t That A Kick in the Head’, ‘My Kinda Town’, ‘New York, New York’ and ‘My Way’. Star of the West End’s Rat Pack, Gary Williams returns to Liverpool to join Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and celebrate music with all the glamour and glitz of the Las Vegas Strip. On Independence Day, join us for a night with swagger, featuring the hits of Bobby Darin, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Andy Williams, Dean Martin, Nat ‘King’ Cole and many more.

Leaving a gift to Liverpool Philharmonic in your will By leaving just 1% of your estate to Liverpool Philharmonic in your will, you will be helping us to change lives through music for generations to come. We honour supporters who have pledged a legacy at an annual Legacy Concert, a celebration of music and life, at which we pay particular tribute to those who have left a legacy. If you are interested in making a gift in your will, or have any questions, please email fundraising@liverpoolphil.com, call 0151 210 2921 or visit liverpoolphil.com/legacy Booking fees may apply – See page 55 for details

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Family & Variety

Children’s Workshops £8 (including accompanying adult) £8 per additional adult Music Room Our music workshops are a great way to introduce children aged 0-5 years old to music. The whole family can get involved – carers, parents and grandparents are encouraged to join in! Led by Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musicians, the workshops involve singing, creative music-making and the opportunity to have a go on a range of musical instruments. Due to space limitations, the number of additional adults is limited for each workshop. Doors open 15 minutes before the workshop starts, and sessions last 45 minutes.

Baby Voices Wednesday 27 May 11.45am

The perfect introduction to making music with your baby, these 45 minute workshops will involve songs, movement, and active listening. Word sheets and suggestions on how to make music at home with your baby will also be provided. Suggested age: 0-18 months

Toddler Tunes Tuesday 26 May 11.45am

Songs and games to help your child develop their musicianship and creativity, including ways to ‘tune in’ to your child using child-led music making. Word sheets and suggestions on how to make music at home with your child will also be provided. Suggested age: 18-36 months

Little Notes Tuesday 26 May 10am Wednesday 27 May 10am

Your child will explore pitch and rhythm through songs and activities, develop their creativity through exploration and performance with percussion instruments, and learn more about instruments of the Orchestra. Suggested age: 3-5 years

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Talks, Tours & Taking Part

Image Esther Yoo

Discover the Classics £15 (£10 students/claimants) Music Room

Tim Lihoreau with Vasily Petrenko and Esther Yoo Saturday 13 June 11am

Hosted by Classic FM Creative Director and Breakfast Show host, Tim Lihoreau, join us to discover the musical, social and historical stories behind some of the music, composers and artists in Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra’s season.

Tim Lihoreau is joined by Chief Conductor Vasily Petrenko and violinist Esther Yoo to discuss the Pictures at an Exhibition concert – see page 41 for concert details.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

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Talks, Tours & Taking Part

Classic Intros Our pre-concert talks and interviews with visiting artists are a great way to get more out of the performance. Talks are held in Music Room and are free to all ticket holders.

Conductor Anthony Gabriele

University of Liverpool’s Senior Lecturer in Music, Dr Kenneth Forkert-Smith, talks about Sibelius’s Symphony No.5 – see page 36 for concert details.

Sibelius Fifth Symphony Thursday 2 April 6.15pm

Wizard of Oz: Film with Live Orchestra

Conductor Anthony Gabriele in conversation with BBC Radio Merseyside’s Angela Heslop, discussing The Wizard of Oz – see page 45 for concert details.

Saturday 18 April 6.15pm

Petrenko’s Mahler IV Thursday 23 April 6.15pm

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University of Liverpool’s Dr Lee Tsang talks about Dutch conductor Willem Mengelberg, famous for his performances of Mahler with the Concertgebouw Orchestra, and Mahler’s Symphony No.4 – see page 36 for concert details.

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Talks, Tours & Taking Part

Post-concert Question Time Free to ticket holders, our post-concert Q&As start 15 minutes after the end of the concert in Music Room, and last around 30 minutes.

Sheku Plays Saint-Saëns

Conductor Elim Chan and Young Artist in Residence and cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason will answer your questions about the Sheku Plays Saint-Saëns concert – see page 40 for concert details.

Thursday 4 June 9.30pm (approx.)

Petrenko’s Mahler VII Thursday 11 June 9.30pm (approx.)

Chief Conductor Vasily Petrenko and Christopher Brooks 2017 prizewinner, Grace-Evangeline Mason will answer your questions about the Petrenko’s Mahler VII concert – see page 40 for concert details.

Special Events

Limited

Mahler in the Landscape Sunday 26 April 4pm Music Room £25

Stephen Johnson, classical music writer, composer and broadcaster, and author of Mahler: His Life and Music, explores Mahler’s relationship with nature and the environment and how it affected the way he worked and the music he wrote. The one-hour talk is followed by a picnic buffet with charcuterie, cheese and smoked fish platters, German onion tart, and a selection of salads (including Gurkensalat, Bavarian Radish Salad and Creamy German Potato Salad).

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

Book now at liverpoolphil.com

Talks, Tours & Taking Part

Get Involved Liverpool Philharmonic offers young people from across the region opportunities to get involved in live music and music-making.

Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Academy Orchestra

A four-day non-residential course for young musicians up to age 18. Players enjoy working together as a symphony orchestra, coaching from Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musicians, rehearsals, sectionals and performances.

Monday 6 April â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday 9 April

Suitable for Grades 4-7.

ÂŁ90 (includes access to a wide range of activities and events in Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company)

For more information, please visit liverpoolphil.com/lpyao

Join Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra To find out more, and to apply for an Orchestra audition, please visit liverpoolphil.com/lpyo

Join Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Choir To find out more, and to apply for a Choir audition, please visit liverpoolphil.com/lpyc

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Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra is for young people aged 13-23 from in and around Liverpool and enjoys a reputation for high quality performances and excellent opportunities for its players. Youth Orchestra members work regularly with Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musicians, including side-by-side rehearsals and performances, as well as with guest conductors, including Vasily Petrenko, Andrew Manze and Jessica Cottis.

Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Choir is for young people aged 12-19 who want to enjoy singing with other talented young people from in and around Liverpool. Youth Choir regularly performs with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir for concerts and special events, including premieres and collaborations, at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall and across Liverpool.

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Classical Music

Starter Collection Do you want to be inspired, relaxed, moved or simply entertained? Classical music is varied and can cater for every occasion.

Image Sheku Kanneh-Mason

We’re very proud to present such an exciting and varied season of concerts, but we know the sheer volume can be overwhelming! So if you’re new to classical music and not sure where to start, then here are a few suggestions.

Nobu Plays Rachmaninov

Thursday 14 May 7.30pm See page 38 for concert details.

Sheku Plays Saint-Saëns

Thursday 4 June 7.30pm Friday 5 June 7.30pm See page 40 for concert details.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

Pictures at an Exhibition

Sunday 14 June 2.30pm See page 41 for concert details.

Book now at liverpoolphil.com

Classical Music

Selling Fast

Sibelius Fifth Symphony Thursday 2 April 7.30pm £46, £36, £27, £22, £15 Classic Intro See page 32 for details

Selling Fast

Petrenko’s Mahler IV Thursday 23 April 7.30pm £49, £40, £35, £27, £21 Classic Intro See page 32 for details

Sponsored by

Beethoven Overture, Egmont Chopin Piano Concerto No.2 Caroline Shaw Entr’acte for strings Sibelius Symphony No.5 Joshua Weilerstein conductor Pavel Kolesnikov piano Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra One evening in the forests of Finland, Sibelius saw a flight of sixteen swans. ‘God, what beauty!’ he exclaimed – and he transformed that natural wonder into the melody that crowns his Fifth Symphony, a tune so good that you feel like you’ve known it your whole life. Tonight’s concert unites the heroism of Beethoven, the poetry of Chopin (played by Russian star Pavel Kolesnikov) and a Liverpool first: the haunting and beautiful Entr’acte by Pulitzer Prize-winner Caroline Shaw.

Beethoven Ah! Perfido Beethoven Piano Concerto No.4 Mahler Symphony No.4 Vasily Petrenko conductor Boris Giltburg piano Susanne Bernhard soprano Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Not all Mahler symphonies are massive. His Fourth Symphony opens with a jingling of sleigh bells, a flurry of birdsong and a melody straight out of Mozart. But it’s not all sweetness and light, and Vasily Petrenko is sure to find both laughter and tears on the way to Mahler’s final vision of heaven, with Susanne Bernhard returning to Liverpool after the success of the Britten War Requiem last season. It’s an enchanting way to end a concert that opens with Beethoven at his most operatic, and his most poetic – as the mesmerising Boris Giltburg plays the enigmatic Fourth Piano Concerto. Vasily Petrenko will provide an introduction from stage before this concert, to help you get even more from the experience.

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Classical Music Selling Fast

Petrenko’s Mahler V Thursday 30 April 7.30pm £49, £40, £35, £27, £21

Victoria Borisova-Ollas Remember Me Giselle: cello concerto (UK premiere, co-commission with RSO Stockholm) Mahler Symphony No.5 Vasily Petrenko conductor Truls Mørk cello Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra A trumpet sounds in the darkness, and Vasily Petrenko’s year-long Mahler cycle plunges into the terror, the glory and the soaring romance of Mahler’s Fifth Symphony. There are horn calls and funeral marches, hymns of triumph and Viennese waltzes – and above all, the heart-rending Adagietto – Mahler’s unforgettable musical love-letter to his young wife. This is music that’s larger than life, so we’ve paired it with the atmospheric Remember Me Giselle by Victoria Borisova-Ollas – a composer from Vladivostok with a flair for drama. Vasily Petrenko will provide an introduction from stage before this concert, to help you get even more from the experience.

One Night at the V.E. Day Proms Thursday 7 May 7.30pm £40, £35, £32.50, £30

Featuring The London Gala Orchestra and exceptional live singers One Night at the V.E Day Proms is the ultimate, musical celebration in honour of the 75th anniversary of V.E Day. This incredible concert show takes you on a musical journey through World War II, providing an insight in to how music played a pivotal role throughout the most extraordinary period in modern day history.

Chamber Music

Nobuyuki Tsujii piano Sunday 10 May 7.30pm £28 Sponsored by

Schubert Four Impromptus, D. 899 (Op. 90) Scriabin Piano Sonata No.5 Chopin Ballades ‘His performance had the power of a healing service. It was truly divine’. That’s how the American piano legend Van Cliburn described Nobuyuki Tsujii – and every time he plays with the Orchestra, he brings the house down. But this is Nobu’s first ever solo recital in Liverpool, and he’s diving deep into the romantic world of Schubert and Chopin, as well as Scriabin’s blazing Fifth Sonata: music to make the imagination take flight. Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

Book now at liverpoolphil.com

Classical Music Last Few Tickets

Nobu Plays Rachmaninov Thursday 14 May 7.30pm £46, £36, £27, £22, £15 Sponsored by

Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No.3 Falla The Three-Cornered Hat Vasily Petrenko conductor Nobuyuki Tsujii piano Kitty Whately mezzo-soprano Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Liverpool knows and loves Nobuyuki Tsujii – the Japanese pianist, whose artistry and charisma leaves audiences cheering and critics lost for words. ‘Player and music seem one’ wrote The Observer. Now witness Nobu scaling the so-called ‘Everest of piano concertos’ – Rachmaninov’s colossal Third, with a conductor – Vasily Petrenko – who has this music in his blood. How to follow that? By heading for the Mediterranean, and Manuel de Falla’s lush, flamenco-inspired ballet of love and lust beneath the scorching Spanish sun.

Flamenco Spirit Sunday 17 May 2.30pm £46, £36, £27, £22, £15

Juan Manuel Cañizares Concierto Al-Andalus Falla The Three-Cornered Hat Vasily Petrenko conductor Juan Manuel Cañizares guitar Kitty Whately mezzo-soprano Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra The true spirit of flamenco is wild, strange, and driven by a passion – a fire – that can’t be extinguished. And in Spain, there’s one name that says it all: Juan Manuel Cañizares, a guitarist born into the flamenco tradition who’s also one of the supreme classical virtuosos of our time. Today, with his fabulous palmeros (the flamenco performers who clap rhythmically) he performs his Concierto Al- Andalus – before Vasily Petrenko and the Orchestra throw themselves into the sultry, warmblooded world of Manuel de Falla’s The Three-Cornered Hat.

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Classical Music Chamber Music

The King’s Singers: Finding Harmony Tuesday 19 May 7.30pm St George’s Hall Concert Room £28 Sponsored by

Petrenko’s Mahler VI Thursday 21 May 7.30pm £49, £40, £35, £27, £21

Programme to include: Harry Dixon Loes (arr. Stacey V. Gibbs) This Little Light of Mine Williams Byrd Ne irascaris, Domine Thomas Tallis God grant with grace Ariana Grande (arr. Richard Wilberforce) One Last Time A stunning programme from the ever-versatile King’s Singers, bringing new and original arrangements that explore how song unites people in times of social upheaval. From the folksongs of Scotland through to the religious music of Thomas Tallis, from the tribal songs of Africa to the pop songs of today – people have always united in song. Finding Harmony celebrates the use of voice to articulate our innermost feelings – uplifting and inspiring.

Wagner Siegfried Idyll Mahler Symphony No.6 Vasily Petrenko conductor Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Wagner’s beautiful and tender Siegfried Idyll, written as a surprise birthday present for his beloved wife, is a delicate love letter, first performed on the staircase of their family home. In contrast, Mahler imagined his mighty Sixth Symphony as a great musical tragedy – the tale of a hero destroyed by fate. He never expected it to happen to him, and he filled every bar of this immense symphony with his most heartfelt and intimate emotions. Both pieces give a musical experience that leaves no listener unmoved, and in the hands of Vasily Petrenko, expect to be stirred to the very depths of your soul.

Chamber Music

Ensemble 10/10: Lawrence Power Thursday 28 May 7.30pm St George’s Hall Concert Room £20 Sponsored by

Luciano Berio Naturale for viola, tape and percussion Thomas Larcher Still for viola, piano and strings Timothy Jackson Traffic Jams and Anagrams (world premiere) Michael Tippett Fantasia Concertante on a theme of Corelli Lawrence Power director/viola/violin Lawrence Power is a string wizard. Joining Ensemble 10/10 for the first time as soloist and director, he’ll weave musical spells from the music of our own time and classic pieces from the twentieth century. Michael Tippett and Luciano Berio provide the earlier classics, Thomas Larcher a classic from this century, and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra’s own Timothy Jackson writes something brand new for Power to weave his magic.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

Book now at liverpoolphil.com

Classical Music

Sheku Plays Saint-Saëns Thursday 4 June 7.30pm Friday 5 June 7.30pm £49, £40, £35, £27, £21

Dukas The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Saint-Saëns Cello Concerto No.1 Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances Elim Chan conductor Sheku Kanneh-Mason cello Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Post Concert Question Time (Thursday concert only) See page 33 for details

When cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason released his debut album, it shot straight into the charts – the pop charts. Then he played at the 2018 Royal Wedding and became an international star. And quite right too, because few cellists play with more beauty or joy than our Young Artist in Residence. Saint-Saëns’ First Cello Concerto is one of his personal favourites; conductor Elim Chan follows it with Rachmaninov’s exciting suite of three symphonic dances, and begins with a piece made famous in Disney’s Fantasia. Pure magic, from first note to last.

Petrenko’s Mahler VII

Grace-Evangeline Mason ‘Mahler’s Letters’ for a cappella choir (world premiere)* Mahler Symphony No.7

Thursday 11 June 7.30pm £49, £40, £35, £27, £21 Post Concert Question Time See page 33 for details

Vasily Petrenko conductor Ellie Slorach conductor* Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Mahler called it his ‘song of the night’, and his Seventh Symphony begins in a boat on an Alpine lake and ends with trumpets raised and cowbells jangling. Along the way there are distant bugles, moonlit serenades and spine-chilling terrors: Vasily Petrenko will bring out all its fabulous colours, as well as its black humour. But first, join the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir and the young British composer and 2017 Christopher Brooks prizewinner Grace-Evangeline Mason for a brand new tribute to the composer inspired by the letter writing of Gustav Mahler.

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Classical Music

Pictures at an Exhibition Sunday 14 June 2.30pm £46, £36, £27, £22, £15 Sponsored by

The Sound of Sondheim Wednesday 24 June 7.30pm £46, £36, £27, £22, £15

Britten The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra Glazunov Violin Concerto Mussorgsky (orch. Ravel) Pictures at an Exhibition Vasily Petrenko conductor Esther Yoo violin Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Experience Mussorgsky’s musical ‘gallery crawl’ past whimsical drawings on display in his glittering Pictures at an Exhibition — from the eerie Parisian Catacombs to The Great Gate of Kiev’s tumultuous pealing of bells in a thunderous finale. It’s a spectacular way to follow Glazunov’s tuneful Violin Concerto, played by the masterly Esther Yoo. As for Britten’s Young Person’s Guide – well, there’s no livelier way to get to know the full Orchestra, whatever your age!

Michael England conductor Singers from West End International, including Louise Dearman, Celinde Schoenmaker and Jeremy Secomb Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Featuring songs from Sweeney Todd, Company, Follies, Sunday in the Park with George, Into the Woods, West Side Story and more! One of the most influential composers and lyricists in musical theatre, Stephen Sondheim redefined the sound of Broadway with his signature blend of sharp-witted lyrics and beautiful, poignant melodies. Join us tonight as the Orchestra, joined by singers from West End International, bring you an evening of some of his finest songs, from some of his most popular musicals including Company, Follies, Into the Woods and Sweeney Todd. Award-winning is an understatement; Sondheim has received a huge range of accolades for his work, including eight Tony Awards, eight Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, and a Lawrence Olivier Award. In this concert, conductor Michael England and the Orchestra will show you exactly why.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

Book now at liverpoolphil.com

Classical Music

Verdi’s Requiem Saturday 27 June 7.30pm £46, £36, £27, £22, £15

Verdi Requiem Domingo Hindoyan conductor Christina Nilsson soprano Jennifer Johnston mezzo-soprano Otar Jorjikia tenor Marko Mimica bass Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra One of the world’s greatest choral works, Verdi’s dramatic and emotional Requiem is conducted by Domingo Hindoyan in this evening’s concert with Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir. With all the passion and power of an opera, experience dramatic trumpets, thunderous rolling drums, and a choir sweeping from tenderness to terror in this breathtaking masterpiece. ‘Only a genius could write such a work’ said Johannes Brahms – and once you’ve experienced this Requiem, it’s hard to see who could argue with that. Please note there is no interval in this concert.

Film Music Extravaganza!

Crosby Symphony Orchestra Sunday 5 July 2.30pm £18, £15, £9, £5

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Juan Ortuno conductor Everyone has their favourite film score – Star Wars? Superman? Jurassic Park? Whatever your favourite film score is, chances are you’ll hear it as Crosby Symphony Orchestra head off to the movies to bring you an afternoon of unforgettable tunes that will bring back all of your favourite movie memories!

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Classical Music

Limited

Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique Thursday 9 July 7.30pm £46, £36, £27, £22, £15 Sponsored by

LSCA 1870-2020

Walton Overture, Scapino: A Comedy Overture Brahms Violin Concerto Tchaikovsky Symphony No.6 ‘Pathétique’ Vasily Petrenko conductor Tasmin Little violin Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra This final Tchaikovsky symphony pulls the emotions out of the listener and performer alike and with Vasily at the helm this will be an unmissable season closing. Joining the Orchestra before that, is long-time friend, Tasmin Little, who made her first recordings here in Liverpool over thirty years ago. This summer sees Tasmin hanging up her concert gowns in a farewell tour which includes this return visit to one of her favourite concert halls in the world. Based on the commedia dell’arte character, Scapino has been described as a rogue, a scoundrel and a rascal – all of which Walton weaves into the lively opener.

Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company

Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Choirs Sunday 12 July 2.30pm £13, £11, £8

This concert includes the world premiere of a staged oratorio inspired by the life and work of Hannah Lightbody, the Liverpool-born 18th century campaigner for the welfare and education of working-class children, featuring all three Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Choirs – Melody Makers, Children’s Choir and our Youth Choir. Music by Grace-Evangeline Mason, words by Lila Palmer.

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Mothership Sunday 26 July 2.30pm £13, £11, £8

Grieg Triumphal March from Sigurd Jorsalfar Aaron Jay Kernis New Era Dance Ginastera Dances from Estancia Mason Bates Mothership Simon Emery conductor Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra It’s summer, it’s hot, and the brilliant young players of the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra and conductor Simon Emery will be on fire in this sizzling concert. There’s majesty from Grieg, high-kicking Latin rhythms from Ginastera, and finally the spectacular descent of Mason Bates’s Mothership: a neon-lit, genre-bending musical close encounter of the third kind, with an electrifying beat. Come and feel the energy for yourself.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

Book now at liverpoolphil.com

Film The antidote to the multiplex, watching a film at Liverpool Philharmonic is a unique experience. Enjoy fantastic films on the world’s last remaining working Walturdaw cinema screen, with organ accompaniment from resident organist Dave Nicholas.

Image Dave Nicholas

Glyndebourne Film Screening

Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (cert U) Monday 13 April 2pm £25, £16

Singing and songwriting take centre-stage in Wagner’s joyous comedy. The world of the Mastersingers, a group of poets and musicians, is turned upside down when the free-thinking Walther von Stolzing enters their singing competition to win his beloved Eva. But can this inspired rulebreaker win the hand of the woman he loves? Filmed in 2011. Sung in German with English supertitles. This screening is approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes, with two 30 minute intervals. Tickets include a glass of fizz on arrival, and for the full Glyndebourne experience, why not enjoy a picnic created by Delifonseca (£20 per person)! Picnics can be purchased online when booking your tickets. Picnics must be purchased in advance, and will be available for collection on the day. Vegetarian picnics are also available.

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Film

Wizard of Oz: Film with Live Orchestra (cert U) Saturday 18 April 2.30pm & 7.30pm £55, £50, £40, £30, £25 Classic Intro See page 32 for details A Symphonic Night at the Movies is a production of PGM Productions, Inc. (New York) and appears by arrangement with IMG Artists.

Sponsored by

Billy Elliot (cert 15) Monday 27 April 7.30pm £12, £10, £8

Anthony Gabriele conductor Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Everyone remembers the moment in The Wizard of Oz when black and white transforms into colour. Now imagine Somewhere over the Rainbow, Follow the Yellow Brick Road and the whole of the score bursting out into full orchestral technicolour. Today, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra plays the soundtrack live with the movie – and whether you’re introducing children or grandchildren to The Wizard of Oz, or you know every line and still can’t get enough of it, it’ll sound every bit as magical as it looks.

Director Stephen Daldry Starring Jamie Bell, Julie Walters, Jean Heywood, Gary Lewis Join us for a very special 20th anniversary screening of BAFTAwinning dance drama Billy Elliot. First released in 2000, Billy Elliot is a heart-warming tale of an elevenyear-old coal miner’s son (Jamie Bell) growing up during the miners’ strike in the North of England, whose life is forever changed when he stumbles upon Mrs Wilkinson’s (Julie Walters) ballet class during his weekly boxing lesson. Before long, he finds himself immersed in ballet, demonstrating a raw talent and becoming torn between his unexpected love of dance and the disintegration of his family.

The Personal History of David Copperfield (cert PG) Tuesday 5 May 7.30pm £12, £10, £8

Director Armando Iannucci Starring Dev Patel, Tilda Swinton, Hugh Laurie, Peter Capaldi, Ben Whishaw, Paul Whitehouse, Gwendoline Christie From birth to infancy, from adolescence to adulthood, the goodhearted David Copperfield is surrounded by kindness, wickedness, poverty and wealth, as he meets an array of remarkable characters in Victorian England. As David sets out to be a writer, in his quest for family, friendship, romance and status, the story of his life is the most seductive tale of all. The film stars Dev Patel in the title role alongside a star studded cast of British talent.

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

Book now at liverpoolphil.com

Film

Military Wives (cert 12A) Monday 15 June 7.30pm £12, £10, £8

Director Peter Cattaneo Starring Kristin Scott Thomas, Sharon Horgan, Greg Wise, Jason Flemyng, Emma Lowndes A group of women come together to form the very first military wives choir, becoming a media sensation and sparking a global phenomenon in the process. Inspired by incredible true events, Military Wives is a heartfelt story of friendship, support and love which promises to be the most uplifting film of the year. From the director of The Full Monty, starring Kristin Scott Thomas (Darkest Hour) and Sharon Horgan (Catastrophe).

No Time to Die (cert TBC) Tuesday 21 July 7.30pm £12, £10, £8

Director Cary Joji Fukunaga Starring Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas, Léa Seydoux In No Time To Die, Bond has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is short-lived when his old friend Felix Leiter from the CIA turns up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology.

MA Classical Music Industry Delivered in partnership with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic. An innovative Masters programme combining a Russell Group education with a unique work placement - gain valuable insight and experience for managing classical music. Graduates from all academic backgrounds welcome.

Apply now at:

liverpool.ac.uk/classical-music-industry

Comedy & Spoken Word

Image Andrew Doyle and Douglas Murray – see page 48

Limited

The Fake News Tour

Jonathan Pie Saturday 4 April 7.30pm £33.50, £27.50, £19.50

Jonathan Pie is the exasperated news reporter whose videos have been seen across the world. Jonathan Pie returns to Liverpool Philharmonic Hall once more to berate the people in power – and the journalists apparently holding them to account. If no news is good news then good news is fake news.

Julian Clary – Born To Mince Friday 1 May 7.30pm £31, £29, £25, £23

In this outrageously camp show, Julian Clary will bare his soul as never before in the interests of light entertainment. He’ll murder some well-known songs along the way, read you a sneak preview from his next memoir A Night At The Lubricant, and make withering remarks about punters foolish enough to sit in the front row. Age Guidance: 16+

Booking fees may apply – See page 51 for details

Book now at liverpoolphil.com

Comedy & Spoken Word Limited

Josh Widdicombe – Bit Much Wednesday 27 May 8pm £26, £20

The guy everyone can do an impression of is back with a brand-new stand-up tour. A show that will change your life and how you perceive your place in the world. Bit much? Fine, it’ll be a very funny night of grumbles and jokes, in which Josh will finally tackle the hot comedy topics of advent calendars, pesto and the closing time of his local park. Age Guidance: 14+

Resisting Wokeness

Andrew Doyle and Douglas Murray Thursday 28 May 7.30pm £36, £30

Hosted by Ashley Frawley For many, the social justice movement of ‘wokeness’ is a kind of cult. Although well-intentioned, most of these new ‘woke’ activists have an unshakeable certainty that their worldview is correct and feel the need to identify and cast out the sinners in our midst, insisting that redemption is not possible. Join Andrew Doyle and Douglas Murray as they discuss the challenges the ‘woke’ mindset presents to individual liberty, intellectual diversity and free speech.

Snowflake/Tornado

Stewart Lee Friday 10 July 7.30pm £30, £24

A double-bill of two new 60 minute sets, back to back nightly from ‘the world’s greatest living stand-up comedian’ (The Times). Snowflake questions Stewart’s worth in a society demolishing the liberal values he has been keen to espouse in a fairy-tale landscape of winter wonder. Tornado questions Stewart’s position in the comedy marketplace after Netflix mistakenly lists his show as ‘reports of sharks falling from the skies are on the rise again. Nobody on the Eastern Seaboard is safe’. Age Guidance: 14+

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Diary

Key ● Music Room ● St George’s Hall Concert Room

Sat 25 8pm

April 2020 Wed 1 8pm Thu 2 6.15pm Thu 2 7.30pm Fri 3 8pm Fri 3 8pm

Skerryvore Classic Intro: Sibelius Fifth Symphony Sibelius Fifth Symphony Selling Fast

Sarah Jane Morris Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Extra Date

9 32

Sat 25 8pm Sun 26 4pm

Brand X Mahler in the Landscape

Mon 27 1pm

Emilia Quartet

9 4 47

Selling Fast

Mon 20 8pm

Beethoven Septet

Wed 22 8pm Thu 23 6.15pm Thu 23 7.30pm

Brìghde Chaimbeul and Aidan O’Rourke Classic Intro: Petrenko’s Mahler IV Petrenko’s Mahler IV

11 32 36

Selling Fast

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

Last Few Tickets

Mary Coughlan Selling Fast

Selling Fast

Sat 4 8pm Oyster 3 9 Sun 5 2.30pm Bugs!! 24 Mon 6 8pm 365: Aidan O’Rourke, 9 James Robertson and Kit Downes Wed 8 8pm The Hive 10 Fri 10 8pm Merry Hell 10 Mon 13 2pm Die Meistersinger 44 von Nürnberg Wed 15 7.30pm Remembering the Oscars 24 Fri 17 8pm Jaki Graham 10 Sat 18 2.30pm Wizard of Oz: 45 Film with Live Orchestra Sat 18 6.15pm Classic Intro: Wizard of Oz: 32 Film with Live Orchestra Sat 18 7.30pm Wizard of Oz: 45 Film with Live Orchestra Sun 19 7.30pm The Hollies 4

Selling Fast

12 33

Limited

Mon 27 Tue 28 Wed 29 Thu 30

7.30pm 8pm 8pm 6pm

Limited

Fri 24 8pm

Last Few Tickets

Sat 4 7.30pm Jonathan Pie

Fri 24 8pm

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

Billy Elliot India Electric Co. Dean Friedman Youth Company Session Band Selling Fast

Thu 30 7.30pm Petrenko’s Mahler V Selling Fast

45 12 13 13 37

May 2020 Fri 1 7.30pm Julian Clary - Born to Mince Fri 1 8pm Jacqui Dankworth & Charlie Wood Sat 2 7.30pm George Sat 2 8pm The Mersey Rigger Sun 3 7pm Exile of the African Warrior Sun 3 8pm Martha Tilston Tue 5 2pm League of Welldoers Tue 5 7.30pm The Personal History of David Copperfield Tue 5 8pm Alvin Youngblood Hart Wed 6 7.30pm Gwen Dickey – The Voice of Rose Royce Thu 7 7.30pm One Night at the V.E. Day Proms Fri 8 7.30pm Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets

47 13 5 13 5 14 25 45 14 5 37 5

Sold Out

Fri 8 8pm Belinda O’Hooley Sat 9 7.30pm And In The End

14 25

Last Few Tickets

Sat 9 8pm Grace Petrie 14 Sun 10 7.30pm Nobuyuki Tsujii piano 37

May 2020 continued Thu 14 7.30pm Nobu Plays Rachmaninov

Last Few Tickets

Fri 15 5pm Sat 16 8pm Sat 16 8pm

LightNight MAZ Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

15 15 4

Sun 17 2.30pm Sun 17 7.30pm Mon 18 8pm Tue 19 7.30pm Tue 19 8pm Thu 21 7.30pm Fri 22 8pm Sat 23 7.30pm

Flamenco Spirit Alistair McGowan Peggy Seeger with Calum MacColl The King’s Singers: Finding Harmony Tom Robinson Petrenko’s Mahler VI Johnny McEvoy The Shires

38 16 16

Sat 6 2.30pm Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita 19 Sat 6 8pm Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita 19 Sat 6 7.30pm Shalamar 7 Last Few Tickets

Sun 24 7.30pm Pink Martini

Mon 25 8pm Blick Bassy Tue 26 10am Little Notes Tue 26 11.45am Toddler Tunes Tue 26 8pm YES Wed 27 10am Little Notes Wed 27 11.45am Baby Voices Wed 27 8pm Josh Widdicombe - Bit Much

17 30 30 6 30 30 48

Wed 27 8pm Thu 28 7.30pm Thu 28 7.30pm Thu 28 8pm Fri 29 8pm Sat 30 8pm Sun 31 1pm Sun 31 2.45pm Sun 31 8pm

17 48

Thu 11 7.30pm Petrenko’s Mahler VII 40 Thu 11 9.30pm Post-concert Question Time: 33 Petrenko’s Mahler VII Fri 12 8pm Salt House 19 Sat 13 11am Discover the Classics: 31 Tim Lihoreau with Vasily Petrenko and Esther Yoo Sat 13 8pm Martin Simpson 20 Sun 14 2.30pm Pictures at an Exhibition 41 Mon 15 1pm A4 Brass Quartet 20 Mon 15 7.30pm Military Wives 46 Fri 19 8pm Harriet 20 Sat 20 12.30pm Postcards from 21 Around the World Sat 20 2.30pm Postcards from 21 Around the World Sat 20 8pm Elfin Bow, Little Sparrow and 21 Daria Kulesh Sun 21 2.30pm Family Film Classics 26 Tue 23 1.30pm In Harmony Liverpool 27 Strings Concert Wed 24 7.30pm The Sound of Sondheim 41 Sat 27 7.30pm Verdi’s Requiem 42 Mon 29 8pm Klezmer-ish: Dusty Road 21 Tue 30 8pm Klezmer-ish: Dusty Road 21

July 2020

Last Few Tickets

39 16 39 16 6

Limited Selling Fast

Limited

Danni Nicholls Andrew Doyle and Douglas Murray Ensemble 10/10: Lawrence Power Fairport Convention The Spinners Legends The Spinners Legends Blast Off! Blast Off! Imar

17 18 18 26 26 18

June 2020 Mon 1 8pm Wed 3 8pm Thu 4 7.30pm Thu 4 9.30pm Fri 5 7.30pm Fri 5 8pm

Thu 2 6pm Thu 2 7.30pm Fri 3 8pm Sat 4 7.30pm Sat 4 8pm Sun 5 2.30pm Thu 9 7.30pm

DaDaFest Scratch Downton Abbey – Live in Concert Tom Spence ‘Musical Theatre’ American Songbook with Gary Williams Charlie Dore Trio Crosby Symphony Orchestra Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique

Fri 10 7.30pm Fri 10 8pm Sun 12 2.30pm Sat 18 7.30pm

Stewart Lee Jamie Smith’s Mabon Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Choirs Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra

22 28 22 29 22 42 43

Limited

Jonathan Aasgaard cello 18 Madison Violet 18 Sheku Plays Saint-Saëns 40 Post-concert Question Time: 33 Sheku Plays Saint-Saëns Sheku Plays Saint-Saëns 40 Henry Normal 19

Last Few Tickets

48 22 43 7

July 2020 continued Sun 19 7.30pm And in the End

Tue 21 7.30pm No Time to Die Fri 24 8pm Ian Prowse Sat 25 8pm Ian Prowse and Amsterdam Sun 26 2.30pm Mothership Sun 26 5pm Saayam Madhuram

46 23 23 43 23

Extra Date

Book tickets now! Box Office 0151 709 3789 liverpoolphil.com

LiverpoolPhilharmonic liverpoolphil liverpool_philharmonic

For full listings, and new announcements, see liverpoolphil.com. Information correct at time of publication, however may be subject to change. Ticket prices may vary, subject to demand.

How to Book Online liverpoolphil.com Telephone 0151 709 3789 Post Box Office, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BP In Person Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BP For opening times, visit liverpoolphil.com/get-tickets For directions, public transport and parking details, as well as information on refreshments, access and FAQs, visit liverpoolphil.com/plan-your-visit. Booking Fees: Online & Phone 8% per ticket administrative fee, including postage In person No charges

A STEAMSHIP EXPERIENCE WITH A

Unique Story

Interval Drinks the easy way!

Cruise on a rare 1903 Steamship along the picturesque River Weaver in Cheshire

Pre-order your interval drinks at the bar before the performance starts.

Cruises from 1.5 hours to 6 hour cruises from May to October 2020 from £22 per person • The SS Daniel Adamson is 15th on the Register of National Historic Ships

Your drinks will be waiting for you at the collection point... no need to queue.

• Affectionately known as ‘The Danny’ she was restored with £3.8million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund • Manned by our Volunteer crew, who happily share her history and point out interesting landmarks during your cruise on the Weaver • Boasts opulent Art Deco saloons, which have been recreated from photographs from 1936 • Refreshments and bar are available on all cruises

Ideal for groups, private hire also available. For timetable visit

www.thedanny.co.uk

or email enquiries@danieladamson.co.uk

@dannyinsteam Search for Daniel Adamson Preservation Society

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BREAK THE BANK TO JOIN US ALONG THE SILK ROAD...

MEAT MONDAY

50% OFF MEAT SECTION 7-10PM

3-4-2 TUESDAY

3-4-2 ON ALL MAIN MENU TAPAS 7-10PM

WINE WEDNESDAY

50% OFF SELECTED WINES 12-10PM MAXIMUM 2HRS

LUNCH OFFER

2 FOR £8 12-5PM

PRE THEATRE

2 COURSES FOR £14.50 88 HOPE ST, LIVERPOOL L1 9BW, CONTACT US ON 0151 706 0707, HOPEST@SILKRD.CO.UK

PRE-THEATRE FLORAL EXPERIENCE Enjoy modern dining, vibrant cocktails and all things floral. To book a table, call 0151 294 4695 or visit theflorist.uk.com/philharmonic

@TheFloristUK Share your photos and videos from your experience with us on Instagram! 24 Hardman St . Liverpool . L1 9AX

2 BLACKBURNE TERRACE

A handsome 1826 mansion... where every detail matters. A haven of refined tranquility and thoughtful service. A rare counterpoint...

Ultimate 100 British Hotels - you are in for an aesthetic adventure 2 Blackburne Terrace, Liverpool L8 7PJ 0151 708 5474 2blackburneterrace.com

A handsome 1826 mansion in the upper reaches of the georgian quarter

The North West’s Finest Florist, with Five RHS Chelsea Gold Medals Proud Partners with Royal Liverpool Philharmonic

www.josephmassie.com |www.josephmassieflowers.com | www.ukschooloffloristry.com

SURROUND YO U R S E L F I N L U X U RY W I T H A S TAY AT PULLMAN LIVERPOOL F RO M O N LY

B E D & B R E A K FA S T BO O K N OW h9227-re1@accor.com | 0151 945 1035 T&Cs – subject to availability.

A relaxing enclave in the heart of the iconic RopeWalks district, The Resident Liverpool is your perfect base from which to discover the best of the city. 0151 705 2626 liverpool.reception@residenthotels.com

residenthotels.com

•

L L o f FA M E

•

EX CELLENCE

2 017 • 2

CE RT IFIC AT E of

2014 • 20

The Resident Liverpool, 29 Seel Street, Liverpool L1 4AU

complete your evening... ...just across the road, we’re the perfect partner for your concert going. pre-concert two course menu £23.50 | post-concert nightcaps | bedrooms from £92

THE LONDON CARRIAGE WORKS t: 0151 709 3000 | e: sleep@hopestreethotel.co.uk web: www.hopestreethotel.co.uk

t: 0151 705 2222 | e: eat@hopestreethotel.co.uk web: www.thelondoncarriageworks.co.uk

LJMU POSTGRADUATE OPEN DAYS There really is nowhere better to study. LJMU has world-leading academics so it would have been pointless for me to go elsewhere. To allow Fiona Brereton to achieve her career ambitions she is studying for a Masters in Public Health

@LJMU

@LJMUofficial

Go postgrad

Dedicated to performance At Investec Wealth & Investment, we are helping to provide a secure financial future. We have a significant presence in Liverpool, and our team of experts are focused on providing a secure financial future for you and your family. We remain committed to the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cultural identity and are proud to be the Principal Partner of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. Find out how we can make your investments perform for you. With Investment Your Capital is at Risk. Please contact our Liverpool office 0151 227 2030 peter.allen@investecwin.co.uk investecwin.co.uk/liverpool Private Clients

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Member firm of the London Stock Exchange. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Investec Wealth & Investment Limited is registered in England. Registered No. 2122340. Registered Office: 30 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7QN. Offices at Belfast Birmingham Bournemouth Bristol Cheltenham Edinburgh Exeter Glasgow Guildford Leeds Liverpool London Manchester Reigate Sheffield