We launch the 2021 International Festival鈥檚 orchestral series with a concert full of the sun, wit and inspiration of Italy.

Our Principal Guest Conductor Dalia Stasevska directs the Orchestra in Respighi鈥檚 Trittico Botticelliano, or Three Botticelli Pictures, a musical reimagining of a triptych of iconic paintings in Florence鈥檚 Uffizi Gallery. From the seasonal fantasia of the Adoration of the Magi to the lapping play of waves in The Birth of Venus, it鈥檚 joyous music of great optimism and drama.

Stravinsky raided earlier Italian music for his delirious ballet score Pulcinella, based around a farcical commedia dell鈥檃rte tale of love, disguise and magic. With its quirky wit and catchy tunes, Pulcinella is unashamedly entertaining 鈥� and was one of the biggest hits of Stravinsky鈥檚 long career.

Stasevska opens her sunlit concert with PIVOT, a brand new work specially commissioned by the International Festival from London-born, New York-based Anna Clyne, one of today鈥檚 most immediate and emotionally involving composers.

The two performances begin at 6pm and 8.30pm.