Hounslow Symphony Orchestra Marks 70 Years

Concert to feature work from same composers performed in 1954

The Hounslow Symphony Orchestra The Hounslow Symphony Orchestra

October 23, 2024

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Hounslow Symphony Orchestra (HSO) and the landmark is to be celebrated by a special concert.

The programme will feature works from the same composers as its first ever performance way back in 1954, presenting a rich tapestry of the Romantic and Classical tradition.

It is taking place on Saturday 16 November at 7pm at St Paul’s Church, 64 Grove Park Road, Chiswick W4 3SB

The programme is as follows:

Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 1
Soloist: Daniel Evans
Mozart: Exsultate Jubilate
Soloist: Rebecca Hardwick
Schumann: Symphony No. 4

Johannes Brahms’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15, marks a significant milestone in his career. Composed between 1854 and 1858, this concerto evolved from a symphonic sketch, reflecting Brahms’s ambitious attempt to integrate the piano with the orchestra on equal terms. The work was written during a tumultuous period in Brahms’s life, notably influenced by the death of his close friend and mentor, Robert Schumann, and his complex relationship with Clara Schumann. To play the concerto, HSO welcomes soloist, Danny Evans.

Mozart composed “Exsultate, Jubilate,” K. 165, in 1773 during his third visit to Milan. This motet was written for the celebrated castrato Venanzio Rauzzini, who was also the lead singer in Mozart’s opera “Lucio Silla.” The work exemplifies Mozart’s ability to write for the human voice, combining technical brilliance with expressive beauty. The text, of unknown authorship, is a hymn of praise and joy, fitting perfectly with the festive and exuberant character of the music. The soloist will be Ellie Neate.

Robert Schumann’s Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120, is one of his most innovative and forward-looking works. Originally composed in 1841, shortly after his marriage to Clara Wieck, the symphony was extensively revised in 1851. This revision, which Schumann regarded as the definitive version, is the one most commonly performed today. The symphony is notable for its cyclic structure, with themes from the opening movement reappearing in later movements, creating a sense of unity and coherence.

For more details and tickets, which cost £14.50 or £11.50 for concessions and £4 for under 18s including booking fee, go to the orchestra’s web site. Tickets on the door on the night will cost £16 (£13 for concessions) or £4 for under 18s. Contactless or card payment preferred.

The HSO aims to be London’s friendliest orchestra, and says it always give new members a warm welcome. There are no formal entry requirements or auditions unless there is excess demand for an instrument. A minimum playing standard of Associated Board grade 6 or equivalent is expected . If you want to give it a try but aren’t sure, you can join in rehearsals for a few weeks to see how you like it, with no obligation.

The orchestra rehearse on Monday evenings, from 7.30pm until 9.45pm St Mary’s Church, Osterley Road, Isleworth (TW7 4PW) after which some of the members go to The Rising Sun on London Road, corner of Wood Lane.

It plays a wide range of music, typically opening a concert with an overture, followed by a concerto, often with a guest soloist, then a symphony in the second half.

The annual membership fee is £200, £155 for over 60s and students pay £75 (or £25 per term).

For performances, gents wear black tie, ladies all black and the HSO “season” consists of concerts in November, March and July.

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