Bristol Beacon joins forces with London Symphony Orchestra to bring world-class symphonies to the masses this Spring

Heralding the start of spring, Bristol Beacon are once again staging a performance at Bath Forum with the renowned London Symphony Orchestra (LSO). This time, the mesmerising performance will be conducted by the LSO’s Artistic Associate, Barbara Hannigan. 

The programme will feature blissful visions of heaven from Messiaen and Mahler, with Hannigan herself singing the soprano line at the end of Mahler’s Symphony No 4. Described as an artist who ‘shoots straight for the heart and never misses’, Barbara Hannigan will leave audiences in awe as she embodies the music in this concert as both conductor and vocalist. 

Incorporating complex rhythms, harmony and melodies, Messiaen is known for his unique composition style. His spiritually uplifting L’Ascension begins the evening’s programme and depicts the ascension of Christ into Heaven. Originally composed for orchestra in 1932-33, Messiaen described the four brief movements as “meditations for orchestra.” 

Mahler’s 4th symphony gets inside the mind of a child, with a dynamic ride through blue skies, jangling bells and rapturous visions. Exploring themes of childhood and innocence, the symphony ends with a solo sung by Hannigan - a poem presenting a child’s vision of heaven.

Lousie Mitchell, Chief Executive of Bristol Beacon, said: “We’ve had such wonderful responses to the previous concerts from the LSO in Bath. Having Barbara Hannigan conducting and singing this March is going to be an incredible moment and a performance that will be remembered for a long time.”

Following the national broadcasts of the previous LSO concerts from Bath Forum, Bristol Beacon are set to live stream the forthcoming concert with Barbara Hannigan to care homes across the country, thanks to sponsorship from Bristol Care Homes. Any care home can tune in for free and homes are invited to screen the concert for staff and residents. Care homes wishing to access the live stream can find further information here.

Tickets are on sale now for the London Symphony Orchestra on Mon 13 March and can be purchased on the website. Tickets start from £15 including booking fee with a £10 ticket offer for the under 26s. For more information and updates on all Bristol Beacon events and news, follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.