That perennial Christmas favourite, the Nutcracker, enjoys a rather early outing here, but after all, mince pies are in the shops already!  Tchaikovsky, master of the classical ballet score, treats us to passionate string sound and delightful wind melodies, including of course the famous ‘fruit and nut case’ tune!

Last December we were enchanted by the playing of Alexander Sitkovetsky and cellist Richard Harwood in the Brahms Double Concerto and we are delighted that Alexander is returning to play the Lalo Symphonie Espagnole with us.  Its lively Spanish rhythms create a sunny atmosphere and are great fun to play.  Alexander encouraged us to collaborate with conductor Jonathan Butcher as the two had worked together in the past and the result promises to be a very enjoyable experience. 

Returning from sunny Spain, it won’t be snowing in Waterlooville yet, hopefully, but Sibelius can always conjure up the spacious and rather chilly Scandinavian landscape.  The 1st Symphony is a fine example of his unique style and the large brass section, timpani and percussion will suit the warm acoustic of Oaklands perfectly.