Rachmaninov Two
Rachmaninov Two
Tchaikovsky Polonaise and Waltz from Eugene Onegin, Op. 24* Side-by-Side
Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18
Rachmaninov Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op. 27
Lise de la Salle piano
Cayenna Ponchione-Bailey conductor*
Marios Papadopoulos conductor
There’s a reason Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2 is the most popular work of its kind ever written. From lonely chords, this iconic score hurtles towards a thundering climax via a succession of irresistible melodies – athletic one moment and heart-rending the next. Six years later, the composer freed himself from political turmoil with a stretch in Dresden that would become one of the most productive of his career. The standout result was a symphony powered by melody that encompasses infernal whirlwinds, passionate declarations of love and heartfelt reflections of peace. French pianist Lise de la Salle joins us for this feast of peak Rachmaninov, opening with livewire dances from his great forbear Tchaikovsky.
Supported by The James and Shirley Sherwood Foundation
Young Artists’ Platform
Pre-concert recital 18:30
Supported by The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust
The Sheldonian Theatre is a unique space to experience live music. To see an interactive map of the theatre click here.
23 Nov 2023
Tickets: £18, £30, £40, £54
(Students from £5)
Duration: 100 min
Venue: Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street
(Students from £5)
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Ein Heldenleben
Jan 29 2026 – 19:30
Strauss’s Ein Heldenleben is a picture of ambition, bravery and resilience and that combines music of unprecedented richness, excitement and tenderness.
Learn More
Maxim Vengerov
Feb 02 2026 – 19:30
Violin virtuoso Maxim Vengerov joins Marios Papadopoulos and the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra for Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto.
Learn More
Oxfordshire Junior Concerto Festival
Feb 07 2026 – 18:30
Prepare to be astounded by three exceptional young soloists as they join the Oxfordshire County Youth Orchestra to perform a concerto movement of their choice. The players will receive individual feedback from a panel of distinguished adjud
Learn More