Beautiful world premiere

Oct 24 2008 by Michael Green, Chester Chronicle

STUNNING violinist Leila Josefowicz will perform the world premiere of Steven Mackey’s violin concerto Beautiful Passing at 7pm on Friday, October 24 with the BBC Philharmonic at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester.

Mackey was jointly commissioned to write Beautiful Passing by the BBC Philharmonic and the St Louis Symphony. Its 20 minutes divide into two halves, separated by a violin cadenza. It was named in memory of his mother, who died during its composition. It will be recorded for later broadcast on BBC Radio 3.

Mackey is also an accomplished guitarist and has composed several works for the instrument.

Leila Josefowicz made her Carnegie Hall debut at the age of 16 and has since performed with many of the world’s top orchestras.

The concert programme will end with a performance of Dvorak’s New World Symphony. Tickets are on sale priced £9 to £31, with discounts and concessions available. They can be purchased from The Bridgewater Hall on 0161 907 9000