This is Rattle: Birtwistle

Ancient and modern meet in an intriguing programme that folds time back across the centuries, juxtaposing Varèse, Machaut, Byrd and Birtwistle.

Simon Rattle has long championed Sir Harrison Birtwistle’s music. Now Birtwistle returns the compliment with a personally-curated musical greeting. In his first concerts with the LSO, Rattle reaffirms his commitment to the powerful, unmistakably personal music of Harrison Birtwistle. Birtwistle’s own vocal music – and that of his forebears – forms the heart of this musical tribute from composer to conductor.

Martyn Brabbins conducts the BBC Singers in the intimate but atmospheric space of Milton Court, in a work that they co-commissioned: the poignant and profoundly beautiful Moth Requiem of 2012. But Birtwistle layers the concert with memories and echoing voices from across eight centuries - from Machaut to Byrd and Varèse. A programme as subtle and provocative as one of Rattle’s own.