BBC Hoddinott Hall 2025-26

From the celebratory orchestral firework, Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, to one of his greatest symphonies, Symphony No. 10, BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama musicians come together to present two masterpieces.

Striking a balance between the light-hearted and the noble, Elgar’s Variations are an ingenious collection of musical sketches of his friends plus an astute self-portrait; an enigma hidden within the score.

Earthly travail lead to heavenly bliss in Strauss’ Death and Transfiguration. To conduct we welcome back award-winning French conductor Alexandre Bloch.

Although less frequently performed that some of his other symphonies, Beethoven’s Second Symphony is a snapshot of Beethoven at his most humorous. Unpredictability and playfulness tally with a bold explosion of joy in this vividly contrasting symphony.

Principal Conductor Ryan Bancroft takes to the podium for his final concert in the title role as we draw our 2025-26 Season to a close, starting with Stravinsky’s symphonic poem Song of the Nightingale.

Marrying unmistakeable Britten with flavours of Copland and hints of jazz, Britten’s American Overture launches this evening conducted by the acclaimed Tomas Djupsjöbacka.

Born in Cardiff, Novello left an extraordinary legacy, composing more than 230 published songs and creating eight West End musicals that shaped British musical theatre for over thirty years.

Left handed piano sensation Nicholas McCarthy makes his debut with BBC NOW in Ravel’s emotionally powerfully and highly virtuoso Piano Concerto for the Left Hand.

BBC NOW – NOW! is back this spring bringing you the best in new music from around the world. Presenting five UK premieres we kick off the evening with Isabella Gellis’ Valedictions.

Discover the latest in composition in Wales this spring as composers deserving of wider exposure have the opportunity to work with Jac van Steen and Composer-in-Association Gavin Higgins on their latest orchestral composition.