Hallé: Prokofiev's Fifth Symphony

Mozart Symphony No.31, ‘Paris’ (18′) | John Casken Madonna of Silence (trombone concerto) World Premiere
 (20′) | Prokofiev Symphony No.5 (43′)

Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony was born in the closing months of the Second World War, yet it captures the optimism and the dynamism of the Soviet industrial age. The composer’s enormous gift for melody and colour is as apparent in this wonderful symphony as in his ballet scores, Romeo and Juliet, and Cinderella. Following the successful premiere of John Casken’s Oboe Concerto in 2014, the series of commissions for Hallé wind soloists continues with Madonna of Silence, written for the Hallé’s Principal Trombone, Katy Jones. John Casken’s craftsmanship, musical imagination and mastery of instrumental writing will doubtlessly thrill and inspire. Jamie Phillips, a former Hallé Assistant Conductor, opens proceedings with Mozart’s ebullient Paris Symphony.