‘ VIELEN DANK ’ THOMAS
In the 12th and final season of Thomas Zehetmair ’ s tenure as Music Director of Northern Sinfonia , the orchestra ’ s longest serving Director presents a typically varied programme that shows the full range of musical wonders that have been a feature of their work together .
Thomas Zehetmair
Upon joining Northern Sinfonia , Thomas quickly established a crucial philosophy to the music-making seeking to perform “ as if the ink was still wet on the page ”, something that now underpins the orchestra ’ s whole approach to all music . With a pure dedication to style and a deep musical interpretation , Northern Sinfonia ’ s performances of the classical repertoire with Thomas have been world-class , recognised nationally and internationally . The Complete Bach Brandenburg Concerti at the Edinburgh Festival , Beethoven ’ s Fifth Symphony at the Aldeburgh Festival and an acclaimed cycle of Brahms Symphonies at Sage
Gateshead are just some of the performances that live long in the memory whilst the orchestra under Zehetmair have been described as “ one of the most daringly responsive Mozartian orchestras in the country ” ( Alfred Hickling , The Guardian ). This season , major choral works by Bach , Beethoven and Brahms and the three last symphonies of Mozart feature with Thomas ’ s ethos and the orchestra ’ s dedication showcased to the highest level .
Thomas ’ s commitment to music from the 20th century has been regularly highlighted in concert programmes each season . This passion was reflected in a short festival of music from the 20th century over one week with music from Schoenberg to Oliver Knussen , whilst in 2008 Thomas and the orchestra gave the world premiere performance and recording of several new discoveries from the pen of Benjamin Britten . Britten ’ s music more than any other has been a key part of Thomas ’ s 20th century repertoire with most of the chamber orchestra works performed . In Britten ’ s anniversary year Thomas continues this interest in the country ’ s most celebrated composer with performances of three song-cycles , each performed with specially selected singers ; established talent Werner Güra and Julie Fuchs and rising star Samuel Boden .
Alongside the dedication to his art , Thomas ’ s time with Northern Sinfonia has been defined by ambition . A Beethoven symphonic cycle over two weeks , conductor-less performances and recordings of numerous violin concerti including Stravinsky and Brahms , exploration of the symphonic works of Tchaikovsky and Sibelius or the many world-premieres , including works by Philip Cashian , John Woolrich and Simon Bainbridge , are just some of the examples of how Thomas and the orchestra have set new targets and challenges and met them with critical acclaim . This final season led by Thomas culminates with a fittingly epic programme including the world-premiere of John Casken ’ s concerto for violin and viola , directed and performed by Thomas and guest Ruth Killius , alongside Bartók ’ s powerful Viola Concerto and Beethoven ’ s saluting Fifth Symphony .
Stunning musicianship , heartfelt commitment and endless ambition underpin a season of masterful works and memorable performances that are a fitting end to this wonderful musical relationship . What Thomas has undertaken and achieved in his 12 seasons is unrivalled and has made a profound difference to the musical heritage of the region and the future of Northern Sinfonia . We don ’ t say goodbye as there are still so many projects and ideas to explore in the future but we say ‘ thank you ’ Thomas for 12 seasons of pure musical joy .
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