Stories
Alex Ho's advice for the next four Soundhub members
We catch up with Alex Ho, who tells us about his year on the LSO Soundhub composers’ scheme, and gives his advice to those applying for next year.
Panufnik Legacies III: Donghoon Shin
Following the release of the third album in the Panufnik Legacies series, which features brand new music from alumni of the LSO Panufnik Composers Scheme, we asked the composers themselves to tell us a little more about their experience writing for and recording with the Orchestra. In this interview, get to know Donghoon Shin.
Sir Simon Rattle on the music of Betsy Jolas
Sir Simon Rattle talks to us about Franco-American composer Betsy Jolas and how her latest work A Little Summer Suite came about.
Ravel in Spain
We explore the Iberian influence on many of composer Maurice Ravel’s greatest works, from Rhapsodie espagnole to Boléro.
The LSO in World War I: Armistice and Renaissance
Back in 2014 we began a project to uncover the story of the LSO and its players during World War I, marking the centenary of the start of the conflict. Four years later, to mark the centenary of the Armistice, we return to take a look at how the LSO was coping by the end of the War and what happened next.
And so the big day has arrived... LSO On Track is 10!
Nicole Wilson, violinist, broadcaster, journalist and founder of Musical Orbit, has been following our young musicians from LSO On Track and the Guildhall School as they got ready for a busy and exciting few days.
Five things you didn't know about Elgar
Learn more about Elgar as a composer and a conductor, his relationship with the LSO and some of his unique quirks.
Behind the scenes: why is a Green Room called a Green Room?
It all started with an Instagram post of the sign on the door of Sir Simon Rattle’s dressing room – or more accurately the Barbican Centre’s Conductor’s Green Room. One of our followers asked the question: ‘why is it called a Green Room?’
Eight things you didn’t know about Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No 2
Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No 2 is one of the most popular and recognisable concertos in the classical repertoire. Widely enjoyed but played only by the most skillful pianists, it has been performed in concert halls consistently since 1901. But how much do you really know about this landmark piece?
Old Street, New Beginnings
In 1966, the parishes of St Luke’s on Old Street, now LSO St Luke’s, and St Giles’ Cripplegate, now just across the water from the Barbican Centre, joined together to form a single community in the heart of London after St Luke’s was forced to close due to structural damage. The united congregation is still thriving today.
The LSO in World War I: musicians at war
As we approach the 100th anniversary of one of the bloodiest battles of World War I, the Battle of the Somme, the LSO’s concert on 28 April includes music written by composers directly affected and influenced by the War.
The LSO in World War I: Elgar's Carillon and how the repertoire changed
Turning attention to those who stayed in the UK during the war.
