By popular demand from members of the University Orchestra, distinguished conductor Jac van Steen returns to the podium to conduct the Cambridge University Orchestra in November 2024.

Tchaikovsky’s Hamlet Fantasy Overture takes the composer’s explorations of fate, a theme often linked to his fourth symphony and found in the symphonic poem Fatum, and combines it perfectly with the story of Hamlet to produce music that expresses the same drama and peril of the original Shakesperean tale.

In contrast, Copland’s Clarinet Concerto, performed by Lola Frisby Williams, joint winner of the University of Cambridge Concerto Competition 2024, opens with a calmness reminiscent of works such as Appalachian Spring. This peace is interrupted by a cadenza which leads directly into a final movement, embracing the spirit of Benny Goodman who asked Copland to write this concerto in 1947.

Rachmaninov’s fiery Symphony Dances concludes the programme with a flourish. The orchestra will display the sweeping melodies, grand textures and luscious harmonies that have come to define Rachmaninov in this performance of his last work.