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Donald Runnicles conductsThe Protecting Veil

27 - 28 March 2024

In the Concert Hall

Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Classical Music

The Sydney Symphony’s Principal Guest Conductor Sir Donald Runnicles has created a program of inspiring, uplifting music for the spirit, with works by Wagner, Tavener and Mendelssohn.

An exquisite universe

Deeply connected to ancient traditions, John Tavener dedicated his life to expressing beauty and truth through music. In The Protecting Veil he created an exquisite universe, awe-inspiring and intensely beautiful.

English cellist Matthew Barley is the ideal soloist for this deeply touching meditation for cello and orchestra, his recent recording of it praised as a 'performance of great tenderness and eloquence' by BBC Music Magazine.

Wagner's 'Good Friday Spell' from Parsifal is the ideal way into this program. A bright and ecstatic celebration of life and the world, the triumphant sound of the brass is enchanting and delightful. After the contemplation of Tavener, Mendelssohn's triumphant Fifth Symphony is the perfect way to send you back out into the world.

Presented by Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Programme

WAGNER Parsifal: Act 3: Good Friday Spell
TAVENER The Protecting Veil
MENDELSSOHN Symphony No.5, Reformation

Artist information

Donald Runnicles conductor 
Matthew Barley cello 

Other information

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