Classic FM are pleased to support the
Spring Sounds International Music Festival 2008

About Spring Sounds

Set in Stratford-upon-Avon, one of Britain’s most historic and beautiful towns, and the magnificent setting of Compton Verney art gallery, a Grade 1 listed Robert Adam mansion in 120 acres of spectacular parkland, Spring Sounds offers a unique canvass for superb performances in the Heart of England.

Stratford-upon-Avon is of course home to our most celebrated playwright, William Shakespeare whose remains lie in Holy Trinity Church, on the banks of the River Avon and the town hosts a unique collection of Shakespeare properties to visit between concerts.

Spring Sounds this year celebrates the life of Vaughan Williams on the 50th anniversary of his death and the programme includes performances of his Fifth Symphony, Concerto Grosso and Lark Ascending.  But this is a celebration of his life and the festival includes commissions from Roxanna Panufnik, ‘Spring’ for solo violin and orchestra and leading American composer Andrew Waggoner, ‘My Penelope’, which will be premiered by the Academy of St Martin in the Fields.

Other repertoire includes the Samuel Barber violin concerto, Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue for solo piano from Viv McLean, the Finzi clarinet concerto from The Academy of St Martin in the Fields with soloist Sarah Williamson, evening jazz from Orchestra of the Swan’s own jazz quartet ‘Swan Unbuttoned’ and ‘Impromptu’ and ‘Picture the Music’ at Compton Verney when our audience will can hear informal performances and will be invited to create graphic scores as art exhibits and music scores.

Celebrate Spring in Stratford-upon-Avon with Spring Sounds

We look forward to meeting you

Tasmin Little – Artistic Director
David Curtis – Festival Director