Stories

From the Archive: A violin signed by 43 original Members
An intriguing instrument in the LSO’s archive, and the only physical piece of evidence that stretches back to the Orchestra’s genesis in 1904.

Meet Rufus Isabel Elliot
Composer, musician and member of the LSO Jerwood Composer+ scheme: meet Rufus Isabel Elliot.

What you should know about Alexander Scriabin
Alexander Scriabin may be best known for his orchestral masterpieces, but what were his unconventional beliefs about the universe? What made him so popular with the 1960s psychedelic movement? And why was he responsible for a brawl in Soviet Russia?

What was Leonard Bernstein's relationship with the LSO?
From his first concert in 1966, to becoming LSO President in 1987, Leonard Bernstein had a close relationship with the LSO that spanned 24 years.

Five of Bernstein's Best Recordings with the LSO
From Mahler’s Symphonies to his own Candide, here are just five highlights of Leonard Bernstein’s recording sessions with the LSO.

Seven times classical music was used in film
Delve into this list of iconic classical music pieces featured in film which you may recognise.

What you should know about Béla Bartók
Delve into the life and history of Béla Bartók, composer and ethnomusicologist, who had a dedication to collecting and transcribing folk music and dances.

Susanna Mälkki: Journey to worlds of dreams
Susanna Mälkki discusses why she chose music by Scriabin, Ravel and Debussy for her upcoming concert with the LSO and pianist Kirill Gerstein.

Duncan Ward: Showcasing Global Groove and Dramatic Tales
‘The audience should float away from the 16 November concert with a new sense of community … they will have sung their hearts out, and I hope they feel the warmth and spirit of collective musical magic’ – Duncan Ward

Hannah Kendall: 'Creolised' sounds in O flower of fire
‘Through my music, I’m usually trying to evoke or even provoke various different emotions and feelings. That’s the case with O flower of fire, which is about the wrestle of faith.’

Kirill Gerstein: 2023/24 Spotlight Artist
Pianist Kirill Gerstein introduces the four pieces he will perform with the LSO as Spotlight Artist in the 2023/24 season.

Five Questions for the Notos Quartett
The Notos Quartett answer five questions on Richard Strauss’ music, and how they got together as a group.