Skip to main content

Main navigation

Vaughan Williams & Shostakovich

14 & 15 June 2024

In the Utzon Room

Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Classical Music

Shostakovich's fifteen string quartets are some of the finest works for small ensemble, and alongside those of Haydn and Beethoven, are indispensable.

Symphonies in miniature

Written to be performed without any break, Shostakovich’s quartet positively fizzes with energy, with richness and detail in both structure and texture. Experience all sides of the composer, from the traditionalist who worshipped Bach to the modern creator who found so much inspiration in jazz.

Ralph Vaughan Williams rarely composed chamber music, but what he did write is magnificent. His Phantasy Quintet displays all the trademarks of his style: rich textures, exquisite harmonies and melodic lines that soar high above muscular lower notes. It's a symphony in miniature.

There is so much to discover in this special event, and two perfect opportunities for collaboration between superb musicians.

Presented by Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Programme

VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Phantasy Quintet
SHOSTAKOVICH String Quartet No.9

Artist information

Musicians of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Other information

You may also like

8 - 11 May 2024 Classical Music

Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony

Indulge in the intoxicating richness of Russian Romanticism with these performances of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No.5, with its passionate melodies and beautiful orchestration.

15 May 2024 Classical Music

When George met Arnold

When George Met Arnold combines a newly created film with live performance to tell the story of the remarkable relationship between two of the greatest composers of the 20th Century.

7 Jun 2024 Classical Music

The Splendour of the Baroque

Baroque music overflows with its precise, crystalline beauty, and when performed by a chamber ensemble each instrument has space to sing.

Checking availability