In this programme, the popular work for string orchestra Sea Sketches by the Welsh composer Grace Williams is an ode to life by the sea in both its comfortable and its temperamental aspects. You will also hear the Brit Edward Elgar, who devoted an entire song cycle to the endless waters, Sea Pictures. The Philzuid orchestra paints Elgar’s unforgettable seascape, with the versatile Brazilian mezzo‑soprano Josy Santos taking on the leading role.

For the other British twentieth‑century giant, Benjamin Britten, the sea was also an immeasurable source of inspiration. The turbulent sea, for example, can be a mirror of a restless human soul. Benjamin Britten’s Four Sea Interludes for orchestra are taken from his most famous opera Peter Grimes.

As so often, the English composer Benjamin Britten excels in pure poetry and classical refinement. It all comes together in his exceptional Serenade for tenor, horn and strings. Britten astonishes with a remarkable fusion of a horn concerto and a song cycle. Special guest is the American power tenor Brett Sprague. He feels entirely at home in Britten’s repertoire. Together with Philzuid horn player Peter Hoeben, Sprague creates a breathtaking serenade to the night and endless dreams. This sea journey is not to be missed.

• conductor Alejo Pérez mezzo‑soprano Josy Santos tenor Brett Sprague horn Peter Hoeben
• programme Sea Sketches | Benjamin Britten - Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings, Op. 31 | Benjamin Britten - Four Sea Interludes | Edward Elgar - Sea Pictures, Op. 37