Harrogate Symphony Orchestra’s return to the Royal Hall will feature a return from top local pianist and good friend Julian Saphir.

The HSOs Spring Concerton Saturday, March 21 will see this graduate of the Royal College of Music performing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1, one of the giants of the genre and instantly recognisable as one of the most popular pieces in the piano repertoire.

In a career spanning 40 years, Julian Saphir has won numerous awards and performed around Europe.

In 2015 he was appointed as Kawai UK Artist by the Japanese piano company, resulting in a number of prestigious recital and concert appearances on their behalf.

The Harrogate Spring Orchestra's Spring Concert on Saturday, March 21 will see pianist Julian Saphir performing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. (Picture contributed)

placeholder image — The Harrogate Spring Orchestra's Spring Concert on Saturday, March 21 will see pianist Julian Saphir performing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. (Picture contributed)

Being based locally, Julian has been able to work extensively with the orchestra this term and the players are very much looking forward to the performance.

He is well known in Harrogate, not just as a performer, but also an inspirational teacher, having founded the Saphir Piano Studios in the town.

In addition to Tchaikovsky, Harrogate Symphony Orchestra will open the concert with Emil von Reznicek’s Overture to his operetta Donna Diana.

The second half will feature Sergei Prokofiev’s 7th Symphony, his last completed major work and typical of his neo-classical style, with fine melodies to catch the audience’s ear.

Led by conductor Bryan Western, the HSO can trace its roots back to 1931 and is one of the UK’s leading amateur orchestras.

For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.harrogateorchestra.org.uk/

Or call the box office at Harrogate Theatre on 01423 502116.