This Autumn, the Usher Hall is thrilled to welcome one of classical music’s biggest success stories to its stage for an evening of passionate orchestral spectaculars.

The Sinfonia of London was originally a famous studio orchestra dating from the 1950s with a catalogue of acclaimed recordings to its name. Recreated, and hand-picked, by pioneering conductor John Wilson, it’s not only carried all before it in music industry awards with its state-of-the-art recordings, but its uniquely vibrant sound – shimmeringly expressive with incisive attack – has made it one of the world’s must-hear orchestras, selling out everywhere. The Usher Hall’s famous acoustic provides the perfect setting for Scotland’s concert-goers to experience its edge-of-the-seat excitement.

For this first visit to Edinburgh, John has picked a programme with a deep Romantic vein. Joining his orchestra is Benjamin Grosvenor, the leading British pianist of his generation, to perform Rachmaninov’s emotive 2^nd Piano Concerto. Immortalised in the soundtrack to David Lean’s movie, Brief Encounter, the concerto remains one of the most demanding for pianist to perform, its epic scale and surging melodies making it an enduring audience favourite.

Exotic tales are the inspiration for the concert’s finale. In Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade, the never-say-die heroine of the Arabian Nights takes centre stage in the musical drama, staying alive by keeping her vengeful husband, the Sultan, interested in suspenseful stories. In this symphonic telling, the solo violin gives voice to Scheherazade, spinning yarns about the great sea captain, Sinbad, with his adventures’ exotic locations coloured by the composer’s most gorgeous melodies and dramatic orchestration.

Launching the concert – and testimony to John Wilson’s unquenchable spirit of adventure – is Grazyna Bacewicz’s Concerto for String Orchestra of 1948. an electrifying opener full of her trademark bold colours and punchy rhythms.

Karl Chapman, Head of Heritage, Cultural Venues, Museums & Galleries, said,

“Sinfonia of London is  a standout orchestra that makes every performance a special occasion so we are really excited to be bringing it to Edinburgh for the first time. There’s no doubt that it will be an unforgettable addition to Usher Hall’s history of hosting landmark performances.”