This promises to be a fabulous concert, with MariatuKanneh-Mason playing the Elgar Cello Concerto. LastNovember, she played the Saint-Saens Cello Concerto in front of a packed and extremely appreciative audience. Tickets for that concert sold out completely within a matter of weeks, so if you would like to come, don’t delay in booking your ticket. Just email northdownssinfonia@gmail.com, or telephone 01959 577659 and we will reserve tickets, which can be picked up and paid for on the night. Tickets are £13, or £11 for concessions, and include a programme.

The ‘tragic opera’ Roberto Devereux was one of a series that Donizetti wrote (this one in 1837) concerning the Tudor period in English history. Robert Devereux was 2^nd Earl of Essex, and an influential member of the court of Elizabeth 1^st. Because of this, there is a very well-known tune in the overture, which you might find surprising in an Italian opera.

The first of Alice Mary Smith’s (1839 – 1884) two symphonies, in C minor, was published in 1863. Born to a family in comfortable circumstances, she was a prolific composer despite her relatively short life – she died of typhoid fever. The symphony is a work that deserves to be better known, being very melodic and harmonious in the classical tradition.

The concert will be conducted by Jonathan Maynard, who has conducted many concerts for us in the past, including the one featuring Mariatu last November.