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Stephen Hough plays Grieg's Piano Concerto

The ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Scottish Symphony celebrates its 90th anniversary with music by Grieg, Tippett and Ayanna Witter-Johnson, with the help of pianist Sir Stephen Hough.

The ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Scottish Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 90th anniversary with a world premiere, arguably the most recognisable piano concerto of all time and a monumental piece which originates from the time the orchestra was founded.

'The world turns on its dark side. It is winter…' Music speaks to us most directly when it engages with its times – and 90 years ago, few young composers understood that better than Michael Tippett. Composed during the Second World War but provoked by decades of intolerance, A Child of Our Time feels as urgent now as it did then, and with Ryan Wigglesworth conducting the National Youth Choir of Scotland and a fantastic line-up of solo singers, it brings an unforgettable climax to the ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ SSO’s 90th anniversary concert.

To start the programme, something entirely new from the irrepressible imagination of Ayanna Witter-Johnson, and pianist extraordinaire Sir Stephen Hough brings all his heart and soul to a piano concerto that never grows old.

Live from City Halls in Glasgow, presented by Tom Service.

Ayanna Witter-Johnson: Bacchanale (World Premiere, ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Commission)
Grieg: Piano Concerto in A minor

c. 8.25pm: interval

c. 8.45pm:
Tippett: A Child of Our Time

Pumeza Matshikiza, soprano
Beth Taylor, alto
John Findon, tenor
Ashley Riches, bass
National Youth Choir of Scotland
Stephen Hough, piano
Ryan Wigglesworth, conductor
ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Scottish Symphony Orchestra

To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Sounds to play Radio 3 in Concert'.

Release date:

2 hours, 14 minutes

On radio

Thu 4 Dec 2025 19:30

Broadcast

  • Thu 4 Dec 2025 19:30