Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending
Ross Harris Face (world premiere)*
Elgar 'Enigma' Variations

Noodling on the piano one evening, Elgar came up with a theme, hitting on the idea of writing variations, each affectionately depicting one of his friends. They have gone on to become one of the most adored pieces of English music, second only perhaps to Vaughan Williams’ wistful, quietly ecstatic song of arcadia.

Between these two favourites is a new commission from Ross Harris. Face is inspired by the story of Sir Harold Gillies, the New Zealander who became the father of plastic surgery through his pioneering work treating the disfiguring facial injuries sustained by soldiers during the First World War. This multimedia work also includes visuals by Tim Gruchy, based on an original artwork by Barry Cleavin.

*Face is generously supported by Creative New Zealand and the William & Lois Manchester Trust.