Ein Heldenleben · CAI LUN is not merely a historical recount of this great inventor’s achievement, but a drama woven with Richard Strauss’ symphonic poem, Ein Heldenleben exploring the emotional and moral complexities of Cai Lun’s life. The play weaves together drama, music, and the stylized performances of Peking Opera, reflecting the ancient Chinese concept of “比兴” (analogy and metaphor) to explore both his triumphs and his personal struggles.

This production continues the director Chen Xinyi’s 20-year exploration of stage aesthetics, where drama and music exist in a delicate equilibrium, guiding the audience through both the historical grandeur and personal turmoil of one of China’s most iconic figures.

Saint-Säens cello concerto with Margarita Balanas and Gustav Mahler Third Symphony’s finale are the highlights of the season opening’s concert.

Beethoven’s intimate fourth concerto and Brahms’ mighty first symphony with BBC New Generation Artist Elisabeth Brauß

An all piano and orchestra evening with legendary pianist Angela Hewitt. Bach and Brahms in D minor.

Early Strauss and late Tchaikovsky together with pianist Cedric Tiberghien.

What makes Brahms and Dvorak two of the most celebrated composers of all time? This concert will aim at showing some of the most direct and human sides of these two bearded men.

The most cosmopolitan of Mahler symphonies bringing together night tales from the East and exquisitely European tunes.

Hear Mahler’s last complete symphony and learn the context behind one of the greatest symphonic achievements.

The Fidelio Orchestra team with Cedric Tiberghien for an exquisite scandinavian programme.

The Fidelio Orchestra returns to St Andrew Holborn for a concert of Mozart and Beethoven symphonies

Fidelio Orchestra

Charles Owen, piano

Raffaello Morales, conductor

St Andrew Holborn

Music by Arnold, Jacob and Seiber

Fidelio Orchestra

Raffaello Morales, conductor