This is London Magazine March Edition 2026 - Flipbook - Page 12
12
TWICKENHAM CHORAL PERFORM
HAYDN’S THE SEASONS
On 21 March, London’s Smith Square
Hall will be filled with the wonderful
sound of spring as Twickenham Choral
perform The Seasons. Lesser-known and
more infrequently performed than
his Creation, Haydn’s The Seasons is
not simply an oratorio. It is a vivid
celebration of nature and human life,
painted in music that feels dramatic,
fresh and surprisingly modern even as it
harks back to a bygone era.
Experiencing it live, on the spring
equinox this weekend, makes it even
more special.
Haydn captures it all: from sunrise to
terrifying storm, from the TallyHo of
hunting to the dance at harvest.
Energetic choruses, including a rousing
wine-filled romp and the well-known
Spinning Song, turn suddenly to softer
moments. There is humour, warmth and
grandeur in equal measure. This is
music that rewards careful listening see if you can spot Haydn’s musical
references - but also carries you along
effortlessly.
This performance brings together
forces that promise something truly
memorable. Twickenham Choral, one of
West London’s most respected choirs, is
joined by three impressive soloists.
Acclaimed soprano Rowan Pierce as
Jane brings clarity and radiance to her
arias, tenor Colin Judson’s expressive
storytelling as Lucas is perfectly suited
to Haydn’s pastoral scenes, and baritone
Morgan Pearse adds richness and depth
as Simon. Together, they powerfully
evoke the human heart of Haydn’s work.
Conductor Howard Ionascu will draw
together choir, soloists and professional
orchestra Musica Tamesis with precision
and vitality, through rapid shifts from
rustic celebration to sacred reflection.
This concert, fittingly performed in
the beautiful 18th century Smith Square
Hall in the heart of Westminster, offers
space to pause, listen and feel
connected to something larger. As the
days grow longer outside, Haydn’s joyful
vision of the changing seasons will feel
both timely and uplifting. It is the perfect
way to welcome spring.
Haydn intended The Seasons to be
performed in the language of the
audience; this performance will be in
English.
www.sinfoniasmithsq.org.uk/event/ha
ydn-the-seasons – more information
at www.twickenhamchoral.org.uk
ROYAL OPERA HOUSE NEW STAGE
CURTAINS TO HONOUR HM THE KING
The Royal Ballet and Opera has
commissioned a magnificent new pair of
stage curtains, marking a significant
moment in its storied history. Crafted in
collaboration with renowned specialists
Gerriets and the esteemed Royal School
of Needlework, the new curtains will be
unveiled in May 2026.
The commission includes the
replacement of the Main Stage curtains,
which have graced the Royal Opera
House for the past 26 years (27 years at
the time of new hanging).
Over nearly three decades, these
curtains have opened and closed on
more than 10,000 performances, bearing
witness to countless premieres, encores,
and curtain calls. Subjected to daily
wear and tear, they have now reached the
end of their lifespan.
The curtains will feature the personal
cipher of His Majesty King Charles III,
Patron of the Royal Opera House, The
Royal Opera, and The Royal Ballet,
symbolising the enduring relationship
between the monarchy and the arts.
Image: (Sim Canetty-Clarke)
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