The Firebird

Marios Papadopoulos and the Oxford Philharmonic took to the stage of the Sheldonian Theatre on Thursday 31st October, alongside violinist Nikita Boriso-Glebsky and violist David Aaron Carpenter, delivering a stunning concert that left audiences raving at the ‘extraordinary performance’ presented in the historic hall.

On the 31st of October 2024, audiences in Oxford’s prized Sheldonian Theatre were treated to a spectacular display of classical music brilliance as the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, led by their Founder and Music Director Marios Papadopoulos presented an eclectic programme of historic and contemporary masterpieces alongside a globally-acclaimed duo – violinist Nikita Boriso-Glebsky and violist David Aaron Carpenter.

‘The Sheldonian Theatre truly feels like the home of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra’, Papadopoulos remarked ahead of the concert, ‘so being able to perform there with such wonderful soloists is always a great pleasure. There is nothing quite like the atmosphere when the theatre is full and truly encompasses the orchestra, especially with such a high number of students attending our concerts.’

Carpenter shared this excitement, noting that ‘reuniting with Marios Papadopoulos and the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra is a highlight of my season. Maestro Papadopoulos’s exceptional leadership, paired with his warmth and humility, makes him a truly remarkable conductor. The Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra’s artistry and commitment are a testament to Maestro Papadopoulos’s inspired direction. Together, they bring a level of sophistication and elegance to every performance. I’m eager to experience once again the magic that happens when we share the stage, and I’m confident that our concert will be an unforgettable musical journey.’

The violist’s confidence proved well-founded, with one audience member declaring that the event was ‘among the most enjoyable and uplifting evenings that I can recall’. The performance opened with Camille Saint-Saëns’s renowned and atmospheric Danse Macabre, quickly followed by a contemporary piece from the pen of Alexey Shor, the Composer-in-Residence of the Oxford Philharmonic, that featured both soloists – namely, the recently-composed and remarkable Violin and Viola Concerto, which left many clamouring to hear more of Shor’s works. Next came Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s arrangement of Modest Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain, before concluding with Igor Stravinsky’s legendary Firebird Suite, a ballet score that heralded the pictorial powers with which the composer would shock and enchant generations of theatregoers for years to come.

‘This concert is full of atmospheric and dynamic works which encourage the listener’s imagination to run wild’, Papadopoulos observed. ‘Both Danse Macabre and Night on Bald Mountain paint vivid pictures of wonderful scenes, and I am most looking forward to conducting the Firebird Suite as it is such an iconic piece of the orchestral repertoire. I heard the violin and viola concerto played in Dubai last year and congratulated Alexy Shor on adopting a neoclassical approach, reminiscent, at times, of Beethoven. As a contrasting work to the Firebird, it helped to bring a new element to a very varied concert programme.’

For his part, Carpenter spoke of the positive impression that the concerto has left on him, stating that ‘Alexey’s skill brings out the viola’s best qualities. Alexey Shor has become a musical powerhouse for the viola, expanding its repertoire with over 20 compositions written for me. His music pushes boundaries, redefining what’s possible. Each performance feels like a celebration of our artistic partnership, showcasing music’s transformative power.’

The two musicians also remarked on the notable inclusion of a contemporary work in a programme otherwise dominated by historic entries, with both in agreement about the vitality of ensuring that classical music remains modern and fresh as we head deeper into the 21^st century.

‘Without contemporary music, the world of classical music has no future’, declared Papadopoulos. ‘We must continue to feature works which push the boundaries of both ourselves as performers as well as the listeners. I believe finding the balance of the old and the new can create the most successful performances which can encapsulate everything that the Oxford Philharmonic has to offer’.

Mirroring these sentiments, Carpenter too stated that ‘including contemporary music in classical events is essential for keeping the art form vibrant and relevant. By showcasing works like Alexey Shor’s concerto alongside traditional repertoire, we attract diverse audiences, inspire new generations of musicians, and demonstrate the instrument’s continued evolution. This blend of old and new ensures classical music remains a living, breathing art form’.

Following this concert, both orchestra and soloists look forward to a busy season full of various events and engagements. Make sure to follow their respective platforms at oxfordphil.com, boriso-glebsky.info, and @davidaaroncarpenter for all the latest updates.