Journey is coming to great end

From the archive, first published Friday 3rd Mar 2006.

THE English Symphony Orchestra's 25th anniversary season culminates with one of Beethoven's greatest masterpieces.

Beethoven's final symphony, No 9, written when he was completely deaf, will be performed at Worcester Cath-edral on Friday, March 10.

The symphony, which is now used as the official anthem of the European Union, has strong British connections as it was originally commissioned by the Royal Philharmonic Society.

It includes Schiller's Ode To Joy set to music in the finale for orchestra, chorus and soloists.

"We're performing one of the greatest masterpieces ever written in a spectacular building," said the director of the ESO, William Boughton.

Beethoven's Symphony No 8 in F and Symphony No 9 in D minor, Choral is the final performance in a complete cycle of Beethoven's symphonies which the ESO has performed as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations.

Mr Boughton said completing the symphonic cycle had been an amazing journey and performances had shown great musicianship.

"I can think of no better way of ending the cycle than with a performance of Beethoven's 9th Symphony in Worcester Cathedral," said Mr Boughton

The orchestra will be conducted by Mr Boughton and soloists include Catherine May, Sarah Pring, Bradley Daley and Andrew Mayor.

The concert starts at 7.30pm and tickets are available from Malvern Theatres on 01684 892277, priced from £10-£28.

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