Conductor: Peter Evans; Piano: Alex Taylor

Harper: Overture
Stravinsky: Danses Concertantes
Rachmaninov: Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini
Strauss: Metamorphosen

Deeply moved by the devastation of the Second World War, Richard Strauss composed Metamorphosen, a serene and nostalgic reverie for 23 solo strings. It was possibly the final acknowledgment from an old man that life and death are never far apart and that self-knowledge can only come of suffering.

The Meadows Chamber Orchestra is privileged to be able to pay tribute to the late Edward Harper, with whom it enjoyed a long and close association. Composed in 1993 for the 21st birthday of the MCO, Overture is a dark, compelling piece, inspired by contemporary world events yet at the same time, conveying the spirit of the occasion. Conducted by Peter Evans, Edinburgh's 'much loved chamber orchestra' also performs Stravinsky's ballet-inspired Danses Concertantes and Alexander Taylor, currently pursuing a busy international career, makes a welcome return as soloist in Rachmaninoff's ever popular Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.

'Here was something for everyone, delivered by an orchestra that tries to make an event out of everything it touches ... with Peter Evans as conductor, each piece was made to speak ...' (The Herald)

'music performed with zeal, passion and a smile' (The Scotsman)