Great Classical Masterpieces

Sheffield Chamber Orchestra are joined by Esme Greenwood as the centrepiece in their Spring concert to play Bruch’s Violin Concerto.

From Sheffield, Esme started learning the violin at the age of 6, and is a precocious talent, recently becoming one of the youngest players to be awarded a place in the National Youth Orchestra.

She’s playing Bruch’s violin concerto which is very popular having been voted No. 1 in the Classic FM (UK) Hall of Fame when they described it as "one of the best works of the Romantic period”. This gem is bookended by two majestic works, Beethoven’s ‘Egmont’ overture, and Brahms’s second symphony.

For most of the audience Beethoven’s piece will need little introduction, famous as it is with its impassioned grand themes. Beginning with sombre opening chords followed by lilting melodies in wind and upper strings then with building tension we arrive at the incredibly powerful main theme initially played by the cellos. It’s an amazing piece — a delight for listener and performer alike.

The concert concludes after the interval with Brahms’s cheery pastoral second symphony, and whilst the second movement is tender and sad, the other movements are much lighter and tuneful with the final movement becoming an unexpected lively romp after a quiet opening.

There really is so much to enjoy in this concert.

The full programme for the evening is:

• Beethoven: ‘Egmont’ overture
• Bruch: Violin Concerto (soloist: Esme Greenwood)
• Brahms: Symphony No. 2 in D Op.73