The Splendour of Strings from Handel to Pat Metheny

An afternoon of musical storytelling spanning more than three centuries. Led by Harold Birston and the Festival Amateur Orchestra, this engaging program travels from the elegance of Handel’s Baroque masterworks to the passionate rhythms of Piazzolla, the rich colours of Respighi, and the unforgettable melodies of Ennio Morricone’s Cinema Paradiso. Along the way, audiences will encounter works inspired by dance, folk traditions, jazz, and film, demonstrating how music continues to connect people across cultures and generations.

Performed by dedicated amateur musicians from the community, this concert celebrates the joy of making music together and the lifelong passion that brings people to the stage. A wonderful afternoon for music lovers, supporters of community music-making, and anyone who believes that great music should be shared by all.

Part of the VSO School of Music International Young Artists Festival.