She comes, she is seen, she conquers – often before she’s even played the first note. Nicola Benedetti is a young and beautiful woman. The fact that she is also a wonderful violinist was proven by her victory in the 2004 “BBC Young Musician of the Year” competition. This artist likes to avoid career shortcuts, preferring instead to focus on modern music. Numerous works have been dedicated to Benedetti including today’s “From Ayrshire” by Scottish composer James MacMillan. Prokofiev’s First Violin Sonata has some distinct ‘spikes’ before finally blossoming into the most tender of melodies. Conversely, the Strauss sonata is a proud early work – fiery, virtuosic, melodic and downright captivating.

Nicola Benedetti Violin
Alexei Grynyuk Piano

James MacMillan
From Ayrshire  (7’)
Sergei Prokofiev
Sonata No. 1 for Violin and Piano in F minor, Op. 80 (30’)
Richard Strauss
Sonata for Violin and Piano in E-flat major, Op. 18 (29’)

Following the concert a discussion with the artists will take place in the foyer.


Finishing time approx.: 12.30pm