Orchestras prepare to mark composer’s 90th anniversary

Hull Philharmonic Orchestra is joining forces with the East Riding Youth Orchestra in a concert at Hull City Hall on November 26.

The programme includes Arnold’s symphonies no 7 and 8, and the orchestras will then combine in a performance of the Shostakovich Festival Overture.

London-based international clarinet star Emma Johnson is also travelling to Hull for the event to play the Copland Clarinet Concerto, originally written for jazz legend Benny Goodman.

Arnold, who died in 2006, was a towering figure in the history of British music and has a remarkable catalogue of major concert works to his credit, including nine symphonies, seven ballets and two operas.

He also wrote 132 film scores, including the music for Bridge on the River Kwai, for which he won an Oscar in 1958.

Hull Philharmonic Orchestra’s musical director, Andrew Penny, a recognised Arnold expert, has recorded all of the nine symphonies on the classical music label Naxos to widespread critical acclaim.

“The city hall audience will witness a major 20th century classical concert performed by a gargantuan orchestra consisting of more than 160 musicians,” said Mr Penny.

“It will be a great opportunity to hear these rarely performed works, with Arnold’s 7th being regarded by many as the finest British 20th century symphony.”

The concert starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost between £5 and £22. To book call (01482) 226655.