Britten’s eerie masterpiece with visuals by Netia Jones

DUNDEE EDINBURGH GLASGOW INVERNESS

22 – 25 October 2012

scottishensemble.co.uk

Re-defining the string orchestra

Mozart Divertimento in D K136Schumann String Quartet No. 3 in A Major op. 41 (arr. Morton)Purcell Fantasias 9, 5 & 11Britten Les Illuminations Martin Suckling New work (world première performances)

Tenor Thomas WalkerVideo Artist Netia Jones

“I alone hold the key to this savage parade” intones the tenor throughout Les Illuminations, one of Benjamin Britten’s best-known works.

Scottish tenor Thomas Walker will be guiding us through Britten’s eerie and dark but sensual sound-world of the crystal chalets, copper palm trees, stags, and castles built from bones depicted in Arthur Rimbaud’s poetry. Following the unconventional spirit of Britten’s composing style, video artist Netia Jones has created visuals to be performed live alongside Britten’s evocative music.

In these first concerts of our 2012-13 season celebrating Britten’s centenary year, we’re also delving into some of Britten’s musical passions with works by Purcell, Schumann and Mozart. Britten frequently turned to these composers for inspiration – hear why for yourself.

scottishensemble.co.uk @scotensemble scottishensemble

Re-defining the string orchestraRe-defining the string orchestraRe-defining the string orchestra

CAIRD HALL, DUNDEE Mon 22 October, 7.30pmPre-concert talk with Netia Jones, 6.45pmdundeebox.co.uk / 01382 434 940

QUEEN’S HALL, EDINBURGH Tue 23 October, 7.30pmthequeenshall.net / 0131 668 2019

ROYAL CONSERVATOIRE OF SCOTLAND, GLASGOW Wed 24 October, 7.30pmPre-concert talk with Britten expert John Bridcut, 6.45pm boxoffice.rcs.ac.uk / 0141 332 5057

ONETOUCH THEATRE, EDEN COURT, INVERNESS Thu 25 October, 8.00pmPre-concert talk with Netia Jones, 7.15pmEden-court.co.uk / 01463 234 234

Registered charity no. SC001539