A beloved New Year musical tradition, originating in Vienna over 85 years ago, is set to bring a touch of Austrian glamour to the Lancashire coast this month. The award-winning Promenade Concert Orchestra will present its own version of the famous Vienna Philharmonic New Year's Day Concert at The Platform in Morecambe on Sunday, January 25.
A Programme of Waltzes and Celebratory Arias
Conducted by founder Howard Rogerson, the orchestra will deliver a lively programme dedicated to the music of the Strauss family. The performance marks a special celebration of Johann Strauss’s bicentenary with a 'Gems of Strauss' medley. The concert opens with Weber's popular Invitation to the Waltz, commemorating 200 years since the composer's death in London.
Adding stellar vocal talent to the afternoon, award-winning soprano Sarah Fox will join the orchestra. Since her schooling at Giggleswick, Fox has enjoyed a glittering international career, performing at venues like the Royal Opera House and Glyndebourne, and appearing at the BBC Proms.
Star Soloist and Community Spirit
Sarah Fox's repertoire for the Morecambe concert will include beloved songs from musical theatre and operetta, such as Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man from Showboat and So In Love from Kiss Me Kate. She will also perform Ivor Novello's Waltz Of My Heart.
The Promenade Concert Orchestra itself is a registered charity, established in 2007. It brings together semi-professional and accomplished amateur musicians from the Lancaster, Morecambe and Kendal area. Now in its 19th season, the orchestra aims to blow away the winter cobwebs with this spirited musical event.
Practical Information and Future Events
The New Year Viennese Concert begins at 3pm on January 25. Tickets are priced at £18, and accompanied children can attend for free. To secure your seat, contact The Platform box office on 01524 582803, email platformboxoffice@lancaster.gov.uk, or visit the Lancaster City Council website.
Looking ahead, the orchestra's season continues with Music from the Palm Court on March 22 and Music from the Films on May 17.
