Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

In this concert the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment takes centre-stage in the Cultural Olympiad celebrations, with the London premiere of Spinal Chords by Sally Beamish.

Commissioned as part of New Music 20×12, the piece is set to a text by Melanie Reid, who broke her neck and back during a horse-riding accident in 2010. Melanie has since been writing an inspirational account of her life as a columnist for The Times newspaper and the piece reflects the positivity of Melanie and the immense spirit of the Paralympian movement. The rest of the programme continues the Olympic theme with references to the Movement’s home country, Greece and the coming together of nations.

Telemann Overture, Les Nations
Handel Aria, Figlio d’Alte Speranza
Sally Beamish Spinal Chords (New Music 20×12 London Premiere)
Locatelli Concerto Grosso Op.7 No.6, Il pianto d’Arianna
Handel Cantata, Delirio amoroso

Matthew Truscott director
Roberta Invernizzi soprano
Juliet Stevenson narrator

Concert finishes at approximately 9.30pm

Listen to the music on Spotify here.

PRE-CONCERT EVENT
OAE Extras at 5.45pm
Queen Elizabeth Hall. Admission Free.

Sally Beamish discusses her new commission, joined by OAE Double bassist Chi-chi Nwanoku MBE.

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PRS for Music Foundation’s New Music 20×12 is a UK-wide commissioning programme initiated by Jillian Barker and David Cohen, and delivered in partnership with the BBC, LOCOG and NMC Recordings. See www.prsformusicfoundation.com for more information

Venue details

Nearest National Rail: Waterloo, Waterloo East and Charing Cross Nearest Underground: Waterloo and Embankment