Concertmaster Andrew Haveron directs Grażyna Bacewicz’s Concerto for String Orchestra, written in 1948 and premiered at a General Assembly of the Polish Composers’ Union two years later. Hailed as “a modern Brandenburg Concerto” by critic Stefan Kisielewski, it drew praise from Lutosławski, who appreciated its “bitter” harmonies and considered it a highlight of Bacewicz’s “no-nonsense period”. The program also includes Dvořák’s idyllic Serenade for Strings, written in just two weeks, and Suk’s Meditation on an Old Czech Hymn, inspired by the 12th-century St Wenceslas Chorale.

Limelight Editor’s Choice

Grażyna Bacewicz was one of Poland’s most important composers, and a significant orchestral violinist as well.

Sometimes called her ‘Ninth Symphony’, her Concerto for String Orchestra ‘crackles with energy’ (BBC Music Magazine), with a haunting slow movement at its centre.

Dvořák’s Serenade is deeply heartfelt and lyrical. Written in just twelve days, its five short movements overflow with exquisite melodies and rich textures. It’s not hard to see why it stands among his most popular and most frequently performed works.

Josef Suk was a student of Dvořák’s, a fierce advocate of his music – and later became his son-in-law. Based on a 12th century hymn, this ode to his homeland is touching and full of longing.