Some of the world's greatest composers and celebrated soloists will join a line-up of talented University musicians over the coming months as the University of Aberdeen launches its new music programme for the winter season this weekend.
Aberdeen audiences can look forward to an inspired and eclectic season of music, when the Music in the University winter season 2004 commences on Sunday (October 10).
The new season opens with the acclaimed Gemini Ensemble, a concert featuring a recital of works by two of the leading women composers of our age Judith Weir and Nicola Le Fanu. This exciting evening will also feature the remarkable Quartet for the End of Time by Messiaen, and the first performance of The Borders of Time by Paul Mealor, who is a Lecturer in Music at the University of Aberdeen. The opening concert will take place in the Mitchell Hall, Marischal College, at 7.45pm, and everyone is welcome to attend. Tickets are priced at £7.50 (£5.00 concession) and are available from Aberdeen Box Office, on (01224) 641122.
The opening concert also celebrates the launch of the University of Aberdeen Music Prize. This competition, the only one of its kind, is dedicated to finding the composers of the future and encouraging creativity and involvement with the arts.
The winter programme of Music in the University invites us to explore King's College Chapel's new Aubertin Organ, through a series of Organ Recitals and the informal series, Pulling Out the Stops, which should help demystify the secrets of the organ loft.
The University's own Musicians will feature in a Gala Concert at the Music Hall on November 4, conducted by Pete Stollery, Paul Mealor, David J Smith, Eric Kidd, and Roger B Williams.
Dr Roger Williams, Director of University Music, said: "We are delighted to launch our exciting new season of music from around the world.
"We have a magical season ahead, featuring great composers, international names and new talent, and we welcome people - young and old - to join us as we endeavour to bring the thrill of live music to wider audiences."
Other highlights include a workshop led by popular and acclaimed pianist Mikhail Kazakevich, recitals by distinguished organist George McPhee, and one of France's leading young organists Francis Jacob, as well as a masterclass with accomplished musician Nathalie Van Ballenberghe.
An adventurous evening of music will be held on November 28, when the works of women composers from Germany and Scotland will be performed, featuring Katherine Smith (Mezzo), Roger B Williams (Piano).
Another key event on the winter agenda is the Discoveries XXXII concert - held in association with Woodend Arts Assocation, as part of Upbeat! - three days of contemporary music events in North East Scotland. Guest performers will include Pete Stollery, Graham Fitkin and Ruth Wall for the World Premiere of Banchory Ears by Pete Stollery and the Scottish Premier of Kaplan, Graham Fitkin's fascinating multi-media experience.
One of the main highlights of the University music season is the ever-popular, Carols for All, which is set in the beautiful backdrop of the Mitchell Hall with the University Choral Society and Concert Band. Carols for All will take place on December 12, at 4.30pm and 7.45pm.
Concert tickets are available now and a copy of the Music in the University winter season 2004 programme can be obtained by contacting University Music on (01224) 272570, or by emailing: music@abdn.ac.uk.
Full details of all concerts are available in the brochure or by visiting: www.abdn.ac.uk/music