Modern problems require classical solutions in The Stoller Hall’s ‘Sounds of Nature’ series

Forming part of its year-long ‘Sounds of Nature’ series, The Stoller Hall is offering a June schedule bursting with classical majesty in its extensive, compelling response to the threat of climate change. Across the month, a roster of stunningly diverse instrumentalists explore the work of various world-famous composers and their relationship to the natural world over 900 years of musical history.

On Thurday (9 Jun), the Swiss pianist Vesselin Stanev is joined by compatriot cellist Zoltan Despond for a new, stirring programme which includes the work of Schumann, Brahms and Beethoven.

On the Friday (17 Jun), the Victoria String Quartet – named after Manchester’s Victoria Baths – will play Haydn, Dvorak and Mendelssohn in another mesmeric live performance, as well as a northern premiere of Elgar’s early quartet fragments.

There’s music for all ages at The Stoller Hall, including little ones, with a family-friendly performance of ‘Battle of the Elements’ with music and instruments inspired by nature. The afternoon entails a musical contest for elemental supremacy, as the orchestra plays pieces which evoke air, wind, water and fire. Tickets are ‘pay what you can’ and are available from just £2.

Rounding off the ‘Sounds of Nature’ classical calendar on June 19^th is the Kantos Chamber Choir with In Beauty May I Walk. Comprising the ‘top choral singers across the north’, the choir performs the songs of 12^th century composer Hildegard von Bingen, 20^th century operatic maestro Jonathan Dove and many more. Kantos’ vocal soundscapes submerge the audience in nature’s beauty but at once its destruction, along with the resolute defiance which can save it.

Take a look at the complete ‘Sounds of Nature’ season. For every ticket bought across the festival, The Stoller Hall will donate £1 to City of Trees.