Ravel and Elgar, 2025

Slough Philharmonic Orchestra 
1930, Saturday 8 March 2025
Caldicott School, Farnham Royal

Ravel La Valse
Ravel Piano Concerto in G
Elgar Symphony No 2

A choreographic poem that evokes the Viennese waltz of the 1850s, Ravel’s La Valse holds the title of the most performed work in the world.  Listen to the dancers emerge from swirling mists, as the music builds from mystery and mood in a long crescendo to a manic climax. 
In contrast, of his Piano Concerto in G, Ravel said that he was not aiming to be profound, but to entertain.  This light-hearted and brilliant piece features a variety of musical elements including a whip crack, influences from Mozart, Chopin and Gershwin and references to jazz and Basque folk music.  Listen for the furious finale where the piano races the orchestra to the finish.
Elgar’s Symphony No 2 is yet another contrast; a beautiful and complex story he described as 'the passionate pilgrimage of a soul' that explores the themes of conflict, paradox, joy and depression and nostalgia.  It is considered one of the most important symphonies of the 20th century and Elgar told a friend that he had “written out his soul” in it.  There is calm reflection, agitation and anger, delight and remembrance moving towards a peaceful golden sunset.

Cconductor Leon Gee
Piano Alexander Soares