Dramatic, emotionally intense American symphonies, both born of 20th-century tumult.

The Music

Dedicated to the memory of JFK, the spectacular ‘Kaddish’ Symphony explores Bernstein’s crisis of faith. Musical theatre, oratorio and choral symphony rolled into one, its libretto rails against and praises God, mirrored by music of rhythmic urgency, unbounded joy and profound beauty.

Copland’s own Third Symphony, completed in 1946, is a vast and beautiful work of sprawling landscapes, offering early audiences a glint of optimism as the war came to an end. The final movement features the composer’s inspirational Fanfare for the Common Man.

The Performers

This is a concert of huge forces, operatic soprano Katharina Konradi, known for her vivid and heartfelt portrayals, and Dame Felicity Palmer, whose deep connection to both music and words brings the narrator’s role to life, alongside the London Symphony Chorus. Chief Conductor Sir Antonio Pappano conducts, opening the 2025/26 season.