Guy Johnston will be performing John Tavener’s intensely beautiful The Protecting Veil with Britten Sinfonia in a 5-concert tour of the UK and Ireland that includes London’s Barbican on 15 February. “One of the later 20th century’s most beloved and moving works” (Gramophone magazine), this timeless classic is full of intimacy and emotion.
One of the very few cellists to have worked with Sir John Tavener, Guy Johnston is the soloist and central character, transcendent amidst Britten Sinfonia’s heady layers of sound.
“A handful of cellists internationally were able to consult John on how their performance could adapt and take on the challenge of The Protecting Veil’s new sound-world. Guy Johnston was able to absorb John’s vision by this personal contact. He brings that depth and experience with his exquisite playing into 2024 and beyond. Guy Johnston and the Britten Sinfonia: ideal.” Lady Maryanna Tavener
In the first half Britten Sinfonia, directed from the violin by Thomas Gould, performs Bartók’s compelling, mood-shifting Divertimento, written on the eve of WWII, and a string orchestra version of Beethoven’s legendary contrapuntal work-out for string quartet.
Schedule:
Norwich Cathedral, Norwich
Fri 9 Feb
Saffron Hall, Saffron Walden
Sat 10 Feb
Barbican Hall, London
Thu 15 Feb
Dublin National Concert Hall
Sun 18 Feb
The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester
Tue 20 Feb