Whats On Guide Sep-Dec 2016

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Box Office liverpoolphil.com 0151 709 3789

Image Rebecca Ferguson / Page 8

Featuring Eliza Carthy & the Wayward Band Katie Melua Roy Wood Seth Lakeman Van Morrison New 2016/17 Orchestra Season Christmas at Liverpool Philharmonic

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Welcome...

CORPORATE AND PRIVATE EVENTS at Liverpool Philharmonic

The Art Deco splendour of Liverpool’s iconic Grade II* listed Liverpool Philharmonic Hall or the ultra-contemporary Music Room, is the perfect place for summer parties, weddings, private dining, meetings, receptions and conferences.

For more information visit www.liverpoolphil.com/hire or email hire@liverpoolphil.com

to September -December at Liverpool Philharmonic.

In these pages you’ll see what’s coming up from now until Christmas. A period packed with events. Whether it is a Christmas concert, a Beethoven symphony, a folk roots gig in the Music Room or one of our sessions where you can learn about the stories behind the music, leafing through these pages we hope you’ll discover something that will inspire and entertain you.

We are proud that, once again, Liverpool Philharmonic is part of three of the city’s great festivals; Liverpool Irish Festival (page 6), DaDa Fest (page 10) and Liverpool Comedy Festival (page 32). And of course there is lots of festive fun this Christmas throughout this guide, with highlights on page 24.

Perhaps the first major highlight comes on 15 September when the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra opens the new 2016/2017 Orchestral season with a concert featuring Beethoven’s first three symphonies. In a bold move the Orchestra

will perform all nine of Beethoven’s symphonies for you in the space of just ten days! It’s certainly a dramatic way to begin the new season (page 23).

Our contemporary music programme features an array of home-grown talent with the best Liverpool artists, both emerging and established, including Nathan Carter (page4), Charlie Landsborough, Rebecca Ferguson, The Real Thing (all page 8), Thomas Lang (page 13), Maz O’Connor, Klemer-ish (both page 16), Emily Portman and Connie Lush (both page 19). Music Room (page 12) is one year old in October!

And like the Liverpool music scene in general it is going from strength to strength.

The atmosphere and acoustics are fast becoming a firm favourite among audiences and artists.

Arguably only in a city like Liverpool, the UNESCO City of Music, could we present the quality, variety and breadth of live music events outlined in this guide. It wouldn’t be possible without audiences’ passion for music and your support.

Contents Contemporary Music Page 4 Liverpool Irish Festival Page 6 Music Room Page 12 Family & Variety Page 20 Talks, Tours and Taking part Page 22 Christmas Page 24 Classical Music Page 26 Comedy & Spoken Word Page 32 Film Page 34

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Contemporary Music | 5

The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Show

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC

Image Fatback Band

Saturday 3 September 8pm £24.50, £30.50

The man known simply as Manuel has clothed many of the greatest stars in popular music including Elvis Presley, Gram Parsons, Johnny Cash, Emmylou Harris, Little

Nathan Carter and his band plus support Friday 16 September 7.30pm £23, £26, £32 – Carter is a household name in Ireland, with fans flocking to hear his brand of Irish country music and to see him and his superb six piece band at dances and concerts. His shows are big, with a superb live sound, a stage set, light show, and he is

Presented as part of the ¡VAMOS! LIVERPOOL programme, created and produced by Monkey Mind Productions.

renowned for going that extra mile to make the Nathan Carter show different. He has brought a whole new generation of fans of all ages to country music in Ireland. Born and raised in Liverpool, Carter grew up in a family with strong Irish roots.

He won All Ireland medals for solo singing, and accordion, at just 12 years of age and became a member of the Liverpool Ceili band. He regularly attended another Liverpool music institution, Jacqui & Bridie’s Folk Club.

50th Anniversary Celebration Sunday 2 October 7.30pm £19.50, £21.50, £26.50 – Fresh from a successful West End run and a sold out UK tour, The Simon & Garfunkel Story comes to Liverpool Philharmonic. Using projections and original film footage, this 50th Anniversary Celebration features a full live band performing all the hits including ‘Mrs Robinson’, ‘Cecilia’, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, ‘Homeward Bound’ and many more.

Sunday 9 October 7.30pm £22, £28 – Bringing their eclectic mix of shoe-gaze, noise and ambient folk to Liverpool Philharmonic, Explosions In The Sky return with their sixth album The Wilderness; a bold, experimental work combining song craft with a cinematic sensibility. The progressive ambience of early Peter Gabriel, the triumphant romanticism of The Cure, and the more melancholy moments of Fleetwood Mac all inform their new work.

‘Authentic and exciting.’

The Stage

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

A Kind of Magic

Daniel O’Donnell Live In Concert

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A once in a lifetime musical tribute charting the life and work of the Mexican fashion designer Manuel Cuevas.

Explosions In The Sky

‘Superb - Remarkable Tremendously Entertaining!’

The Stage

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Friday 2 September 7.30pm £23.50, 27.50, £33.50 – The originators of the New York sound, which has influenced so many, the Fatback Band are pioneers of dance, funk, soul, rap, disco and R’n’B. This show features all the big hits including ‘I Found Lovin’, ‘Spanish Hustle’, ‘Is This The Future’, ‘Back Strokin’, ‘Wicky Wacky’, ‘Yum Yum’, ‘Keep On Steppin’ and ‘I Like Girls’. Their dance floor smashes merged jazz and beats with a touch of West Indies & Caribbean style.

And with Soul Survivors Magazine awarding them ‘Best Soul Concert’ in 2013 they’re proving that they’ve still got it.

Richard, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Dolly Parton, The Beatles, Aerosmith, Linda Rondstadt, Eurythmics, The Mavericks and Jack White. A selection of these rhinestone studded stars of music will come together to honour the man that gave them all a style of their very own. This concert marks the first exhibition of the rock n roll designer’s work outside of the US, which opens at St George’s Hall on 10 September. A full line up will be confirmed soon, in the meantime, be the first to get a ticket to this one off concert.

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Musical Threads

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Fatback Band

Friday 9 September 7.30pm £21, £23, £29 – It’s fun all the way as the ‘Purveyors of Cool’ swing into town with a sensational show with live orchestra featuring some of the greatest music of the 20th Century. Enjoy wonderful memories of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Junior live. Every song is an absolute classic; ‘Come Fly With Me’, ‘Under My Skin’, ‘Sway’, ‘Mr Bojangles’, ‘Fly Me to the Moon’, ‘That’s Amore’, ‘Mack the Knife’ plus many more of your favourites.

It’s vintage Las Vegas with show girls and timeless style.

The Simon & Garfunkel Story

Monday 12 September 7.30pm – Returning to Liverpool to perform well loved hits from his incredibly successful career.

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Saturday 8 October 7.30pm £15, £20, £26, £32, £42 – Nick Davies conductor Singers from the West End International Company: Rachael Wooding, Jenna Lee-James, Oliver Tompsett, Jon Boydon – Big, brash and fabulously larger than life, the music of Queen fuses glam rock, soul and huge lashings of grand opera.

Elaine Paige Thursday 6 October 7.30pm £28.50, £38.50, £55, £65 – Actress, singer, producer and radio presenter, Elaine Paige OBE, has made such a major contribution to the stage musical that her title as undisputed First Lady of British Musical Theatre remains unchallenged. Her West End debut, Hair, was followed by roles in Jesus Christ Superstar and Grease before her roof

raising performance as the iconic Eva in Evita won her numerous awards and set a spectacular new standard for the future of musical theatre performance. The opening of Cats in 1981 led to Elaine’s rendition of the classic song ‘Memory’ becoming one of her many hit records. She has gone on to record 14 solo albums and earned eight consecutive gold and four multi-platinum albums.

Supercharged with entertainment value, it’s simply made for a symphony orchestra – and this sensational full orchestral spectacular unleashes Queen’s greatest hits including like you’ve never heard them before. This year would have been Freddie Mercury’s 70th birthday so with ‘Radio Ga Ga’, ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’, ‘Killer Queen’, of course ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and many, many more. What better way to celebrate the music of this great showman. Freddie would have loved it.

Level 42 Plus special guests Monday 10 October 7.30pm £28, £34 – Playing a host of their greatest hits as well as new material from the Sirens II EP, Level 42 return. Catch classics including ‘Lessons in Love’, ‘Something About You, Leaving Me Now’, ‘Running in the Family’, and

‘Hot Water’. With the recent reissues of their vast catalogue they continue to be a benchmark for British Jazz Funk. Level 42 are Mark King bass/vocals, Mike Lindup keys/vocals, Nathan King guitar/vocals, Sean Freeman sax/vocals, Dan Carpenter trumpet/vocals, Nichol Thomson trombone/vocals and Pete Ray Biggin drums.

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Contemporary Music | 7

Damien Dempsey

The Hollies

Sunday 23 October 8pm Music Room £17.50

Saturday 15 October 7.30pm £25, £31 – Performing their classics; ‘The Air That I Breathe’, ‘Carrie Anne’, ‘Bus Stop’, ‘Just One Look’, ‘Stop Stop Stop’, ‘On a Carousel’, ‘Long Cool Woman’, ‘In a Black Dress’, ‘He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother’ and many more hits. This show is a brilliant two-hour (and more) Hollies celebration.

13 - 23 October Bringing Liverpool and Ireland together

Image We Banjo 3

We Banjo 3

Lynched

Friday 14 October 8pm Music Room £16 – This award-winning ensemble from Galway combines Irish old-time bluegrass music and song to reveal the banjo’s rich legacy and roots. The Irish Times describes them as ‘absolutely virtuosic’ and liveireland.com are calling them ‘a new force in Irish music’. On their debut CD UK Folk Music said ‘[it] will hopefully one day be considered on a par (in folk music terms)with say the first time you heard Steeleye Span or Fairport Convention.’

We Banjo 3 have been at the forefront of Irish banjo and fiddle for two decades. Their competitive success is unrivalled, Martin Howley holding seven All Ireland titles, Enda Scahill with four, while Fergal Scahill and David Howley hold All Ireland titles on Banjo, Fiddle, Bodhran and Guitar.

Sunday 16 October 8pm Music Room £15 – Lynched are a four-piece traditional folk group from Dublin, who combine distinctive four-part vocal

harmonies with arrangements of uilleann pipes, concertina, Russian accordion, fiddle and guitar. Their repertoire spans humorous Dublin music-hall ditties and street-songs, classic ballads from the Traveller tradition, traditional Irish and American dance tunes, and their own original material.

Dempsey, from Dublin’s north side, counts among his fans Brian Eno and Sinéad O’Connor, Bob Dylan and U2, (whom he has shared a bill with), and Morrissey, who invited him to support him on his US tour. He has recorded a unique album, No Force On Earth, as a celebration and commemoration of the Easter uprising of 1916 that saw the birth of the Irish Republic. In his homeland Damien is held in the highest regard by peers and audiences and as well as a string of number one albums he has a haul of Meteor Awards.

This is a one off opportunity to see Dempsey in an intimate setting, sharing his story of this centenary year, with all the close up intensity that his acoustic performances engender.

‘One of Ireland’s great singersongwriters.’

The Guardian

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Sixties Gold Friday 21 October 7.30pm £32.50, £38.50 – Take a trip down memory lane with some of the 60s’ most well know stars. From Liverpool, where it all started, The Searchers’ first single went to number one and led to five more top five hits and a total of 128 weeks in the charts. Brian Poole & The Tremeloes, the band that broke the Liverpool stranglehold and went on to have 21 hits that spent over 220 weeks in the UK charts.

Controversial, ponytailed P.J. Proby, whose trouser splitting shocked the nation, was a Melody Maker teen idol award winner in 1964 and spent 91 weeks in the charts. Wayne Fontana spent over 75 weeks in the British charts with hits such as ‘Game Of Love’, ‘Um Um Um Um Um’ and ‘Pamela Pamela’.

Special Guests are Gary Puckett & Union Gap direct from America.

Jimmy Osmond: Moon River and Me Wednesday 26 October 7.30pm £27.50, £30

Loudon Wainwright III with special guest Chaim Tannenbaum Sunday 23 October 7.30pm £23.50, £29.50 – Singer songwriter Loudon wrote his first song ‘Edgar’ in 1968. His recording career now spans a total of 26 albums. His songs have been recorded by Johnny Cash, Earl Scruggs, Rufus Wainwright and Mose

Pink Martini Monday 24 October 7.30pm £27, £30, £36 – Led by classically trained pianist Thomas M. Lauderdale and multi-lingual vocalist and front-woman China Forbes, Pink Martini are somewhere

Allison, among others. Loudon brings poetry, honesty and humour to his songs and wins fans wherever he performs. His 26th album, 2014’s Haven’t Got the Blues (Yet), is a collection of 14 brilliant songs dealing with subject matter including depression, drinking, senior citizenship, gun control, heartbreak, pet ownership and New York City’s arcane practice of alternate side-of-the-street parking, in Loudon’s trademark witty style.

between a 1930s Cuban dance orchestra, a classical chamber music ensemble, a Brazilian marching street band and Japanese film noir. ‘Pink Martini is a rollicking aroundthe-world musical adventure ... if the United Nations had a house band in 1962, hopefully we’d be that band’, says

A brand new show full of award-winning music, nostalgic footage and special memories of Andy Williams. Jimmy sings the songs beloved by millions including ‘Music To Watch Girls By’, ‘Happy Heart’, ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’, ‘Almost There’,’ May Each Day’, ‘Days Of Wine And Roses’ and ‘Moon River’. The youngest member of the world-famous Osmond family is joined by The Moon River Band with special guest stars Charlie Green and Emily Penny, and, naturally, a show with an Osmond would not be complete without some of the chart-topping hits that made Jimmy and his brothers famous.

Lauderdale. The band have played Liverpool Philharmonic twice before. Their debut in 2011 sold-out, which prompted a unique collaboration with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra the following year.

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Charlie Landsborough

Rebecca Ferguson

Sunday 30 October 7.30pm £20, £26 – Though he was inducted into the British Country Music Hall of Fame in 2011 and is generally recognised as a country singer Landsborough is a performer who is difficult to categorise. He covers many areas of the musical landscape from beautiful ballads, to folk, blues, country, rock ‘n’ roll, pop, gospel and anthem. The Merseysidebased artist’s music shows a depth of compassion and understanding which seems almost incongruous to his simplistic yet captivating style.

Original ‘dreamboats’, Marty Wilde, Eden Kane, Mike Berry, and The Wildcats, with very special guest Mark Wynter Tuesday 1 November 7.30pm £28.50, £33.50 – The late 50s and early 60s were some of the most exciting and important years in the history of music. With the arrival of rock ‘n’ roll, a whole new pop culture was born. Performing their own hits and collaborating live on stage, Marty, Eden, Mike and Mark, teen idols of their day, show us how rock ‘n’ roll with its fusion of sound and rhythm shaped the style of music that we listened to then and still do today. Includes the hits ‘A Teenager In Love’,’ Rubber Bal’l, ‘Donna’, ‘I Don’t Know Why’, ‘Well I Ask You’, ‘Don’t You Think It’s Time’,’The Sunshine of Your Smile’,’ Venus In Blue Jeans’, ‘Go Away Little Girl’ and many, many more!

Tuesday 15 November 7.30pm £28.50, £38.50, £55, £75.

Under 14s accompanied by an adult – The internationally renowned singer and actor, in his first major tour in over four years, performing his much loved hits

plus special guests Friday 4 November 7.30pm £22.50, £28.50, £35, £42.50 – With influences ranging from Aretha Franklin to Kings of Leon, Ferguson’s resilient vocals move easily between blues and pop. This homecoming show for the Liverpudlian star features hits from the singer’s albums Heaven and Freedom, plus exciting new material.

‘The singer proves that she’s a class act who is more than up to the job…

Ferguson brings her own brand of smooth Liverpool soul.’

DigitalSpy.co.uk

Van Morrison

The Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll Show

David Essex

Tuesday 8 & Wednesday 9 November 8pm £45, £65, £80 – Van Morrison releases his brand new album Keep Me Singing on September 30. His 36th studio album consists 12 original songs written and

performed by Morrison, as well as a cover of the blues standard ‘Share Your Love With Me’ written by Alfred Baggs and Don Robey and previously recorded by artists such as Aretha Franklin and Kenny Rogers. These dates at Liverpool Philharmonic are two of just seven live UK shows.

The Real Thing Saturday 12 November 8pm £20, £22.50, £28.50 – Featuring the hits ‘You’ll Never Know What You’re Missing’ and ‘You to Me Are Everything’, ‘Can’t Get By Without You’ and ‘Can You Feel the Force?’ which all became million selling singles during the band’s pomp, this will be a special hometown concert. Formed in Liverpool in the 70s The Real Thing went on to become one of Britain’s best soul groups. Join them to celebrate an incredible 40 years in the business. The three original vocalists, Chris and Eddie Amoo and Dave Smith perform all their hits with their own five piece.

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

spanning his entire fifty year career. David Essex first shot to fame when he went to an audition for the London production of the musical Godspell. Since then he has enjoyed a remarkable career that has combined concerts, records, theatre, composing, films and television with striking success. He has had 23

Contemporary Music | 9

top 30 singles in Britain alone.

These include the Grammy nominated ‘Rock On’ which not only topped the charts in Britain and the USA but sold over one million copies.

Subsequent singles followed ‘Lamplight’, ‘Hold Me Close’ and ‘Gonna Make You A Star’ making David a household name.

Dr. Hook Starring Dennis Locorriere

Maximum Rhythm and Blues

Friday 18 November 7.30pm £25, £29.50, £32.50, £38.50 – After proving to be an incredibly popular solo artist for many years, original frontman Dennis Locorriere has put together a sensational band and is performing under the original Dr. Hook name.

From the very beginnings of Dr. Hook to the height of their success, Dennis Locorriere was the unmistakable voice of the band’s biggest hits and best loved songs, receiving more than 70 Platinum and Gold Discs. Locorriere and his incredible band bring you the show Dr. Hook fans have been waiting for. Reviving special memories with classics such as ‘Sylvia’s Mother’, ‘A Little Bit More’, ‘Sexy Eyes’ and ‘When You’re In Love With A Beautiful Woman’.

Saturday 26 November 7.30pm £26.50, £28.50, £33.50 – A fabulous evening of Rhythm n Blues nostalgia with some the greatest artists of the 60s!

Appearing together in this unique concert are The Manfreds, featuring both of the band’s vocalists Paul Jones and Mike D’Abo, soul pioneer PP Arnold and one the biggest characters of the 60s RnB scene Zoot Money. An all-star line-up with the hits to match!

The Stylistics plus support Friday 25 November 7.30pm £27, £33 – The Philadelphia group recorded a remarkable 10 straight-top ten hits during the early 1970s including the

Grammy nominated hit ‘You Make Me Feel Brand New’, plus ‘Can’t Give You Anything (But My Love)’, ‘You Are Everything’, ‘Betcha By Golly Wow’, ‘I’m Stone In Love With You’, ‘Break Up To Make Up’, ‘Sing Baby Sing’ and many more.

Katie Melua with the Gori Women’s Choir Tuesday 29 November 7.30pm £19.50, £27.50, £37.50, £45 – Multi award-winning Melua is joined on stage by the 23-piece Gori Women’s Choir masters of the ancient Georgian tradition of polyphonic singing. Together they perform new material from Melua’s forthcoming recording project as well as a selection of classic songs from her six- album catalogue. Katie Melua released her debut album Call Off The Search in 2003. Since then she has released five further studio albums including 2013’s Ketevan which is her birth name. Born in the Georgian city of Kutaisi, she grew up in the seaside town of Batumi before moving to Belfast at the age of nine.

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Contemporary Music | 11

Seth Lakeman Tuesday 6 December 7.30pm £22.50, £28.50 – Mercury Prize nominee, BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner, folk singer, songwriter, guitarist and virtuoso fiddler Seth Lakeman returns following his Liverpool Philharmonic debut last year.

Lakeman has successfully helped to steer English folk into the musical mainstream with his festival appearances, captivating live shows and a series of best-selling albums over the last 10 years since he released the Mercury Prize nominated ‘Kitty Jay’. He is joined by his multiinstrumental band for this concert, so expect a trademark high energy performance.

DADA FEST

Amadou & Mariam Saturday 3 December 7.30pm £19.50, £28.50 – Married for more than 25 years, Amadou and Mariam met in the orchestra of The Institute for the Young Blind in Bamako.

Since then, their magical fusion of pop, blues and Malian music has won them fans and stellar collaborators around the world.

In recent years, Amadou and Mariam have toured with Coldplay and U2 and jammed with musical heroes David Gilmour and Johnny Marr.

They performed at a Nobel Peace Prize concert in honour of Barack Obama, and played at the opening ceremonies of the last two FIFA World Cups.

DaDa is the international festival bringing artists from across the globe to Liverpool to showcase and celebrate the best in Disability and Deaf Arts.

The Human League

Sunday 4 December 7.30pm £28.50, £31, £36 – The world’s premier Beatle band features all the classic hits in their spectacular two hour multi-media stage production.

Using film footage of the period and ‘with a little help from’ their regular brass and string ensemble, the show traces the history of the Fab Four from Liverpool’s Cavern Club through Sgt Pepper to The Apple Rooftop. This incredible band have headlined the acoustic stage at Glastonbury festival, played support slots with Oasis, Rod Stewart, Simple Minds and David Bowie, performed for the Queen, and graced the cover of NME, cultivating a new contemporary audience into the bargain.

Wednesday 14 December 8pm £36, £42.50, £50 – The new wave darlings are back with A Very British Synthesizer Group: The Anthology Tour.

Christmas with The Overtones Katherine Jenkins: Celebration Monday 12 December 7.30pm £29.50, £45, £60, £65

Join Katherine Jenkins, conductor Anthony Inglis and the Manchester Concert Orchestra as she performs a magnificent concert of her favourite music and songs accompanied by a live orchestra.

Wednesday 21 December 7.30pm £22.50, £29.50, £38.50, £45.50 – The Overtones are torchbearers for flat-out fantastic singing, as much as a throwback to the timeless appeal of doo-wop and Motown as they are to modern

Roy Wood plus support The Vals Friday 9 December 7.30pm £24.50, £28.50, £34.50 – Multi-instrumentalist and cofounder of The Move, Electric Light Orchestra and Wizzard brings his Rock ‘n’ Roll band to Liverpool Philharmonic. A staple of the charts throughout the 60s and 70s, Wood cemented his rock credentials with the festive anthem ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’. Expect to hear all his classic hits, including ‘I Can Hear The Grass Grow’, ‘Flowers In The Rain’, ‘Blackberry Way’, ‘California Man’, ‘See My Baby Jive’ and much more.

‘The UK’s most acclaimed young folk artist.’

The Guardian

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

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‘If they could bottle the sort of bonhomie that can make an entire concert hall feel better, The Saw Doctors would have the medicine show to end them all’ says The Times. After a three-year break from playing live Irish rock band, The Saw Doctors, are back! They return to Liverpool Philharmonic to debut new songs from their latest album, Uber Value, the band also bring back fan favourite hits including ‘N17’, ‘I Useta Lover’, and ‘To Win Just Once’.

The Bootleg Beatles in Concert

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Wednesday 30 November 7.30pm £25, £35, £40 –

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The Saw Doctors

GIFT CARDS GIVE THE GIFT OF LIVE MUSIC

A perfect Christmas present for the music lover who has everything!

Available online at liverpoolphil.com/giftcards, or phone 0151 709 3789. Redeemable online or at Box Office for any concert or event at Liverpool Philharmonic.

CHOOSE FROM 3 DIFFERENT DESIGNS

day R&B and pop. Celebrating the most wonderful time of the year, with a stocking rammed full of Christmas crackers, in the shape of good ol’ classics such as ‘White Christmas’, ‘Santa Claus Is Coming To Town’ and ‘Let It Snow’, this will end a vintage year for the Darren, Mark, Mike, Lachie and Timmy.

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MUSIC ROOM

Leveret Thursday 8 September 8pm £14 – Andy Cutting, Sam Sweeney and Rob Harbron are each regarded as masters of their instrument and are involved in numerous collaborations with a huge range of artists. Together their performances combine consummate musicianship, compelling delivery and captivating spontaneity.

Leveret’s music is rooted in the English tradition but sounds fresh and new, with original settings of ancient tunes sitting alongside new compositions by some of today’s finest tunesmiths in the folk field.

Image Leveret

Music Room is situated to the rear of Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, on Sugnal Street. This friendly and informal setting with fabulous sound is the perfect space to get closer to live music.

As well as gigs by the best folk roots, blues, world and new music artists, Music Room is home to Close Up – a series of concerts by musicians of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra exploring music in their own ensembles and bands. Events are in a relaxed cabaret style seating format, unless otherwise stated, but standing or theatre-style seating in the venue is appropriate for some artists. ‘... the Philharmonic’s Music Room is one of those smart interventions that makes you think, what took us so long? ... you can be exposed to more genuinely thrilling new musical experiences here than an entire month’s worth of 6Music playlists…this is the best music venue you’ve never been to…

Honestly, do yourself a favour. Go see someone you’ve never heard of, playing a genre of music you know nothing about, that no Liverpool music blog ever writes about. It’s scientifically proven to be 77% more beneficial for your brain than mindfulness and oily fish.’

Seven Streets

Mawkin Sunday 11 September 8pm £12 – These guys were the perfect fit as support on Bellowhead’s Farewell Tour and The Guardian calls them, ‘Your new folk festival favourites’. This five-piece bring you rousing

Django’s Legacy Saturday 3 September 8pm £20 – An evening celebrating the music of legendary gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt. We bring three of the best guitarists in this genre, Robin Nolan, Remi Harris and John Wheatcroft, together for the first time to celebrate the influence of Django Reinhardt’s music on their playing. Expect an evening of Django classics, Gypsy Jazz, Swing, Jazz standards, AC/DC and The Beatles plus a few surprises on the way.

Roddy Woomble performing ‘My Secret is my Silence’ Friday 16 September 8pm £18.50 – The front man in Scottish rock band Idlewild is also a celebrated solo songwriter and performer. In fact 2016, sees

Roddy celebrating the 10 year anniversary of his debut solo album My Secret is my Silence.

The album debuted at number 1 in the UK folk charts and was highly praised (five stars in The Sunday Times). It was through word of mouth though that the album became something of a ‘cult classic’.

‘Tender and epic, enormous yet touching.’

BBC Music

RURA

Wednesday 14 September 8pm £12 –

A stalwart of the 1960s folk revival, Leon is an incomparable songwriter with a unique style, and a wicked sense of mischief.

His songs poke fun at the preposterous, the people in power, the state of the nation and the world. His music has been covered by the likes of Billy Bragg, Dick Gaughan and The Dubliners. His most recent - and final - album Where are the Barricades features some of his finest songs, ranging from the humorous to the poignant and from the lyrical to the satirical.

songs of rebellion sung by brothers David Delarre (Eliza Carthy, Tred) and fiddler James Delarre (Saul Rose & James Delarre, Topette) all underpinned by Nick Cooke’s melodeon (Kate Rusby, Jim Moray) with Danny Crump on bass and Lee Richardson (Diverted, Extreme Music) on drums.

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Keston Cobblers’ Club Thursday 29 September 8pm £12.50 – Siblings Matthew and Julia Lowe gathered with school friends Tom Sweet, Harry Stasinopoulos and Bethan Ecclestone to revive the legacy of the old struggling Cobbler of Keston and his foot-stamping, shoe-scuffing music club. Their debut album One, For Words

‘Music of a rich, sinewy immersion, guided by a mutual sense of exploration, space and a very English kind of swing.’

The Guardian

Leon Rosselson

Music Room | 13

Friday 23 September 8pm £14 – A rugged yet refined blending of fiddle, Highland pipes, whistle, flute, bodhran, guitar and voice from award-winning Scots.

‘Live Act of the Year’ at the 2015 Scots Trad Music Awards, RURA are ‘one of the most exciting bands on the Scottish folk scene’ (Songlines). Steven Blake, Adam Brown, David Foley, Adam Holmes and Jack Smedley’s powerful instrumentals and haunting songcraft have been a highlight of many of the world’s leading folk festivals – including Cambridge, Tønder, Winnipeg, HebCelt and Shetland, amongst countless others.

‘Genuinely stirring stuff… there’s something very exciting about RURA.’ Fatea Magazine

Lulo Reinhardt and Andre Krengel Quartet Sunday 25 September 8pm £15 – Two brilliant guitarists collaborate, The ‘Reinhardt name’ brings to mind Lulo’s world famous great-uncle, Django, but Lulo was taught guitar by his father from age 5.

His unique musical skill is astonishing enough, yet he has an ability to make it all appear so utterly effortless. In his performance Reinhardt explores a fusion of music and styles, including flamenco, Latin, and Brazilian jazz combining these with a nod to his Gypsy influences. German guitarist Andre Krengel cofounded the prize winning band Sina Nossa (‘Our Destiny’), a Portuguese fusion band who won the World Creole Music Festival. The German press call Andre ‘traveller between cultures’ and ‘the guitar wizard with magic hands’. You can’t help but be impressed when he switches between styles and cultures without losing its identity such is his virtuosity.

Masterclass 2pm £20

won widespread praise.

With festival appearances at Bestival, Cambridge Folk and Wilderness amongst others, Keston Cobblers’ Club are ‘a band set for huge things’ (the 405 Single Of The Week) who ‘have all the makings of a folk-pop crossover success story’ The Guardian.

‘Where did this band come from?? One of the best new discoveries I made.’

Steve Lamacq, BBC 6Music

Andy Irvine

Thomas Lang Album Launch Friday 30 September 8pm £17 – Lang releases a new studio album, The German Alphabet on Klee Records. Thomas Lang is a Toxteth born, Liverpool based singer-songwriter, best known for the jazz-tinged song ‘The Happy Man’, which spent 3 weeks in the UK top 100 singles chart in 1988. He toured with Suzanne Vega and Alison Moyet among others throughout the early 90s, and live dates included several residencies at London’s Ronnie Scott’s and shows with the legendary Nina Simone.

Thomas continues to play live with his band and released a live album Torch in 2014 which was recorded at Liverpool Philharmonic.

Sunday 2 October 8pm £14 – Ireland’s influential music and pop culture magazine Hot Press said ‘Andy Irvine is Woody Guthrie’s representative on earth’. He is among the great Irish singers and his voice gets to the very soul of Ireland.

Irvine is a founding member of two groups that have inspired Irish traditional music makers for a generation, Sweeney’s Men and Planxty. This would be achievement enough for most, but Irvine has gone on to create THE Irish super group Patrick Street, and the Pan-European group Mosiac. Now a Liverpool Philharmonic favourite Irvine is a pioneer and an icon for traditional music and musicians.

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Woody Guthrie: Hard Times and Hard Travelin’

Heidi Talbot Thursday 6 October 8pm £16 – Heidi Talbot was born in Ireland became a folk star in the US as a member of the Irish-American band Cherish the Ladies. She now lives in Scotland, where she is married to the celebrated fiddler and multi-instrumentalist John McCusker. With a background like that, it’s hardly surprising she should develop a style that switches easily between Celtic and Americana, but subtlety is

Tuesday 4 October 8pm £10

A ‘live documentary’ presented by singer, multi-instrumentalist and Professor of American Literature and Culture Will Kaufman. Author of the first political biography of the legendary American balladeer, Will is recognised as the world’s leading authority on Woody Guthrie.Woody Guthrie: Hard Times and Hard Travelin’ sets Guthrie’s songs in the context of the American 1930s - the Dust Bowl, the Depression, the New Deal and the state of popular music itself. Such hardhitting songs as ‘Vigilante Man’, ‘Pretty Boy Floyd’ and ‘I Ain't Got No Home’ are brought into conversation with other relevant songs - from Joe Hill's ‘The Preacher and the Slave’ to ‘Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?’. The show highlights the blending of music and radical politics marking Guthrie's most powerful work.

Ensemble 10/10: 23 Songs of a Mad Woman

Talbot’s magic ingredient. Her gossamer voice and delicate reworking of traditional and contemporary material earned her rave reviews. She has been nominated for ‘Folk Singer of The Year’ and ‘Best Traditional Song’ by BBC Radio 2, ‘Best Live Act’ at the Scottish Traditional Music Awards and ‘Best Female Vocalist’ at the Irish Music Awards. Heidi releases her new record, Life in 9 Songs this autumn.

‘A voice that’s both awestruck and tender.’

The New York Times

Catfish Keith Friday 7 October 8pm £14 – Blues singer, songwriter and bottleneck slide guitarist Catfish Keith has established himself as one of the most exciting country blues performers of our time.

Catfish’s innovative style of foot-stomping, deep Delta blues and American roots leaves audiences spellbound. He has reinvented the guitar with great power and artistry, and brings a rare beauty and vitality to his music. Handing down the tradition, Catfish continues his lifelong journey as one of the brightest lights in acoustic blues and roots music.

Saturday 8 October 11am Masterclass £30

Ragged Union Bluegrass Sunday 9 October 8pm £14 – Ragged Union’s hard-driving bluegrass, with a tinge of the traditional and a healthy dose of the blues is pretty special. No one has said it better than Ron Thomason, of old-time bluegrass stalwarts Dry Branch

O’Hooley & Tidow Wednesday 12 October 8pm £14 – They have been compared with the most celebrated harmony duos, early Simon and Garfunkel and the iconic Kate and Anna McGarrigle. O’Hooley & Tidow’s deeply moving performances infused with honesty and empathy will disarm even the hardest of heart. With a personal invite from Billy Bragg to play

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The Lindisfarne Story Saturday 15 October 8pm £18.50 – After exploding onto the music scene in 1970, Tyneside group Lindisfarne were propelled to the forefront of acoustic rock music. Their vivacious lyricism cut through the prevailing pop music of the era to achieve international success. In this evening of music and chat, former members Billy Mitchell and Ray Laidlaw tell their story from the very beginning. The show features exclusive behind the scenes anecdotes, videos and live performances of all their musical hits including ‘Lady Eleanor’,’ Meet Me on the Corner’ and ‘Fog on the Tyne’.

Fire Squad, who said, ‘This IS your grandfather’s bluegrass music but NOT his lyrics or subject matter. These tunes are ‘traditional’ in their approach and in RU’s presentation, but the subject matter of the lyrics is wholly modern’. Lead by husband and wife Geoff and Christina Union, the band have performed at several major festivals in the US this is one of just four UK dates.

Glastonbury, sessions on 6 Music and Radio 2, a five star review and feature in The Guardian, one of Mojo’s ‘Top 10 Folk Albums of 2014’, and twice nominated for ‘Best Duo’ in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

‘One of British folk’s mightiest combinations.’

Mojo ‘Boundless songwriting and exquisite harmonies that truly shine.’

The Guardian

Wednesday 5 October 8pm – Clark Rundell and Liverpool Philharmonic’s contemporary music group Ensemble 10/10 perform the music of Liverpool composer James Wishart. See page 27 for details.

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

George Monbiot and Ewan McLennan’s Breaking the Spell of Loneliness

Scott Fagan plus support Stephen Steinbrink Wednesday 19 October 8pm £15 (Standing) – That Scott Fagan never became a major star is mystifying. His is a story of extraordinary talent and monumental potential confounded by a series of frustrating near-misses, all of which conspired to obscure him from the public eye for decades.

A teenage prodigy mentored and managed by songwriters Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, who almost became Apple Records’ first non-Beatles album release. His debut album, South Atlantic Blues, is a genuine lost classic — a mystical, mythical and deeply soulful masterpiece. Recorded when Scott was just 21, virtually

homeless and with pennies to his name, it was released in 1968 but remained obscure.

Steeped in delicate psych, soul and resonant acoustic guitars it’s an epic song cycle about Fagan’s life struggles. Reissued last year the album heralds the rediscovery of a major talent, one that should finally see Scott Fagan accorded his place in the canon of popular music alongside his better-known 60s and 70s peers.

‘A taste of Scott Walker, a flicker of Bowie, Lou Reed and Tim Hardin, but a sound that is purely and utterly Fagan.’

The Guardian

Thursday 20 October 8pm £18.50 – ‘Never before have we, the supremely social mammal, been so isolated. The results are devastating: a collapse of common purpose, the replacement of civic life with a fug of consumerism, insecurity and alienation. We cannot carry on like this’ writes Monbiot. He and McLennan have written a mixture of ballads and anthems together with the aim to break the spell which appears to have been cast upon us; the spell of separation. George narrates the show, describing the ideas behind the songs, and discussing the broader themes and underlying politics; while Ewan sings the songs and performs the music that has emerged from this unique and innovative collaboration.

‘Scott Fagan’s time has come at last.’

The Quietus

Blue Rose Code

Robyn Hitchcock

Friday 21 October 8pm £12.50 – In the space of only a short few years and two stellar albums, Blue Rose Code, Edinburghborn Ross Wilson, has gone from song-writing in the obscurity of an East London flat to being a celebrated artist.

AND LO! THE BIRD IS ON THE WING his new album was released in March. The Ballads Of Peckham Rye, Blue Rose Code’s previous record, was nominated for the prestigious ‘Scottish Album Of The Year Award’ in 2014 and featured a roll-call of remarkable talent, including Danny Thompson, Karine Polwart, John Wetton, Aidan O’Rourke and Kathryn Williams.

Saturday 22 October 8pm £15 – One of England’s most enduring contemporary singer/songwriters and live performers, Hitchcock is a surrealist poet, talented guitarist, cult artist and musician’s musician. He is among alternative rock’s father

figures. Since founding the artrock band The Soft Boys in 1976, Robyn has recorded more than 20 albums. Blending folk and psychedelia with a wry British nihilism.

‘A gifted melodist, Hitchcock nests engaging lyrics in some of the most bracing, rainbowhued pop this side of Revolver.’

Rolling Stone

‘Blue Rose Code is a very important emerging singer/songwriter.’

Bob Harris, BBC Radio 2

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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The Rite of Spring David Patrick Octet Thursday 27 October 8pm £14 – The ‘stylish contemporary pianist’ (The Guardian) performs his reworking for jazz octet of Igor Stravinsky’s masterwork. Retaining all of the themes and almost all of the exquisite orchestration of the original composition, The Herald says of the project, ‘This is a Rite that rewards those whose love is of the original work as much as it will delight jazz fans’. Improvisational sections appear organically out of Stravinsky’s score, allowing band members to be featured as individual soloists as the piece unfolds.

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Maz O’Connor Wednesday 2 November 8pm £12 – Liverpool’s own BBC Folk Award nominee, Maz O’Connor is one of the most exciting young voices in British folk, and is quickly establishing herself as a bold and compelling songwriter. Maz performs a mixture of traditional, reworked folk songs and her own thoughtful, poetic

compositions. In this concert she features her new album The Longing Kind, but this is no ordinary gig. The songs have been crafted into a show that invites the audience to join the musicians on a tour of longing, belonging, youth and identity.

You’ll have to be here to find out more...

‘Shadows, light and a touch of Joni Mitchell...Classy.’ **** The Guardian

‘Patrick’s inventive use of the octet... ensures that this version has almost as much aural power, and just as much emotional impact, as a full-on orchestral version.’

All About Jazz

Steve Forbert

Chris Wood

Saturday 5 November 8pm £16 – The singer-songwriter had his first major hit back in 1979, vaulting to international prominence with a folk-rock hit, ‘Romeo’s Tune’ during a time when rootsy rock was fading out and The Ramones, Talking Heads and other New Wave and punk acts were moving in to the public consciousness. Thirty-plus years later, he’s still writing acclaimed songs having released 14 studio albums, including a Grammynominated tribute to Mississippi legend, Jimmie Rodgers. Forbert mesmerizes a crowd with nothing but his distinctive voice, an acoustic guitar and his trusty harmonica slung around his neck.

Friday 11 November 8pm £15 – An uncompromising writer whose music reveals his love for the unofficial history of English speaking people. With gentle intelligence he weaves the tradition with his own contemporary parables. He cites his major influence as ‘Anon’. On stage Chris has the air of a craftsman who no

Pierre Bensusan Wednesday 9 November 8pm £14 – The ‘Mozart of Guitar’ returns.

Over the past 40 years, finger style acoustic guitar virtuoso Pierre Bensusan has taken his unique blend of world, Celtic, jazz and folk inspired music to all corners of the globe. Winner of the 2014 Independent Music Award for ‘Best Live Performance Album’ for Encore, Pierre is recognized as one of the great guitar players of the 21st century. Described as a ‘genius’ by the likes of Jon Gomm and Melody Maker, immortalised by the tune ‘Bensusan’ written in tribute by the late Michael Hedges, and referenced as an important inspiration to many other great musicians, Bensusan is a oneof-a-kind artist whose music transcends genre and time.

Genesis Visible Touch Friday 4 November 8pm £17

The band returns to the Music Room for another exciting evening of the 80s period Genesis featuring Chris O’Connell (drums and vocals) and Tony Turrell (keyboards).

With state of the art lighting and effects, Genesis Visible Touch recreate the look, feel and sound of the period covering the albums Duke through to We Can’t Dance, including the double-drums of Phil Collins and Chester Thompson, the ‘power-Genesis’ era with Collins on vocals at the forefront of a punchy sound.

Klezmer-ish

Steve Gunn

Monday 14 November SOLD OUT Monday 21 November 8pm EXTRA DATE £15 – Due to demand, we’ve added an extra date for Klezmer-ish, the ensemble of musicians from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra featuring Thomas Verity (clarinet), Concettina Del Vecchio (accordion) Marcel Becker (double bass) and Robert Shepley (guitar / violin).

With new arrangements and numbers from their debut album, Music of the Travellers Klezmer-ish continue their journey through the colourful landscapes of bohemian folk music. Join them as they let down their hair to entertain with an evening of music of gypsy jazz, tango and klezmer.

Tuesday 15 November 7.30pm £15 – The New York-based guitarist and songwriter has produced volumes of critically acclaimed solo, duo, and ensemble recordings. His voracious appetite for collaboration sees him play with The War On Drugs and Kurt Vile & The Violators. For this UK show Gunn comes direct from supporting Dinosaur Jr. throughout October. His astounding solo albums, as well as his work with GHQ and longtime collaborating drummer John Truscinski, represent milestones of contemporary guitar-driven, forward music.

Close Enough for Jazz Big band

Wednesday 16 November 8pm £12 – The award winning big band, directed by multiinstrumentalist and composer, Danny Miller, comprises some of the North West’s top musicians including Martin Smith, Cliff Ray, Eric Animan, Dan Thorne, Simeon Scheuber and Mike Smith playing a mix of contemporary big band tunes and classic standards with some of the best musicians from the North West of England scouted from Paul McCartney’s Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts and the University of Liverpool. One of the hottest up and coming big bands in the country.

longer needs to be precious about his art. Without any apparent effort he reaches deep into an enviable repertoire of songs before revealing another gem.

‘As close as it gets to a perfect union of voice and guitar, lyrics and melody, compassion, irony, realism, wit, and humanity.’

The Herald

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Kristin Hersch Saturday 19 November 8pm £17.50 – Hersh founded the influential art-punk band Throwing Muses. Signed to 4AD they became the pioneering record label’s first US artist. After Throwing Muses Kristin formed the power trio, 50FootWave and her solo, mostly-acoustic, career began proper in 1994 with the release of Hips and

Eliza Carthy and The Wayward Band Friday 18 November 8pm £27 (Standing) – Eliza Carthy, a self-described ‘Modern English musician’, has become one of the most dazzling and recognised folk musicians of her generation.

Now she is fronting her own 12piece supergroup that has become one of the best festival acts on the circuit. Eliza Carthy & The Wayward Band release a new album this October. The record features traditional

material, as well as classics from Eliza’s back catalogue and new tunes. A beacon of hope in these uncertain times The Wayward Band is bursting with some of the finest players in recent times, including members of Bellowhead, Mawkin, Blowzabella, Edward II, Emily Portman Trio, Peatbog Fairies, Dreams of Tall Buildings & Tyde.

‘There is so much intelligence at play in these greatest hits… The audience don’t want it to end.’ fRoots

Makers which included ‘Your Ghost’ - a duet with R.E.M.’s Michael Stipe. Since then, Kristin has released a steady stream of distinctly individual solo albums. Now she is a respected author of memoirs.

This rare solo show includes readings and songs from her works spanning her entire career and marks the released of her new double CD and book, Wyatt At The Coyote Palace, out in October.

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Michael Chapman very special guest Nick Ellis Sunday 20 November 8pm £15 –

A self-styled old white blues guy from Yorkshire and one of the most under-rated folk-heroes of our time. Chapman’s uniquely English melancholic perspective and emotive guitar style first won him the admiration of John Peel and then more recently kindred spirits Jack Rose and No Neck Blues Band. He also toured in duo with Sonic Youth’s Thurston Moore. Described by the All Music Guide as ‘a craftsman at the top of his trade’ Chapman is a lively and accomplished improviser.

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Dar Williams Tuesday 22 November 8pm £14 – American singer-songwriter Dar Williams returns to Liverpool Philharmonic on the back of her ninth album, Emerald. She is ‘a songwriter of immense talent’, says The Telegraph, ‘and her new album is a work of real depth.’ It ‘deals as bluntly as ever with the shadowy, subtle corners of humanity’ says Rolling Stone.

Williams’ success has come from her unparalleled song writing, she specialises in pop folk. The New Yorker described Williams as ‘one of America’s very best singer-songwriters’.

She is a frequent performer at folk festivals and has toured with such artists as Mary Chapin Carpenter, Patty Griffin, Ani DiFranco, The Nields, Shawn Colvin, Girlyman, Joan Baez, and Catie Curtis.

‘Twenty one albums and he is still amazing.’

Q Magazine

Seafoam Green: The Last Waltz Friday 25 November 8pm £14.50 – On 25 November, 1976, at the Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco, The Band performed

Emily Portman and the Coracle Band

Sheelanagig Sunday 27 November 8pm £13.50 – A quintet with a well-stocked armoury of stringed instruments – banjo, fiddle, double bass etc – and a bagful of joint-jumping tunes, these boys sure know how to get a party started. Putting both stomp and skank into gypsy flavoured tunes from the Balkans and beyond, it’s

Africa Oyé & Mellowtone

their last ever concert after 16 years on the road. On that faithful night they were joined by some ‘friends’ - Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Muddy Waters, Van Morrison, Dr John, Eric Clapton, Emmylou Harris & Joni Mitchell to name but a few. 2016 marks the 40th Anniversary of that night and in celebration of the influence it has had on songwriters since, Seafoam Green & Mellowtone celebrate with a concert of songs from the very setlist on that day in 1976.

The West African Blues Project Modou Touré & Ramon Goose Wednesday 30 November 8pm £12.50 (£14 On The Door) – Senegalese vocalist Touré and Brit blues maestro Goose combine to make brilliantly uplifting music. Touré’s vocals glide effortlessly over Ramon’s masterfully placed guitar blues riffs celebrating the traditions and invoking landscapes of West Africa. Modou Touré inherited his vocal strength from his father, Ousmane Touré, who sang for a time with Senegalese band Touré Kunda.

difficult – nay, impossible – for your limbs to remain stationary when you’re within earshot of them in full flight. If a combination of Madness, Taraf de Haidouks and Hot Club jazz ticks your boxes, here’s your new favourite band. If you’ve seen them before then you know there will be mayhem, a lot of laughs and some great music.

They popularized Senegalese world music collaborating with the likes of Carlos Santana and Talking Heads. For Ramon Goose, this is the latest in a series of successful collaborations including with kora superstar Diabel Cissokho, blues singer Boo Boo Davies, James Brown’s saxophonist Alfred ‘Pee Wee’ Ellis, Louisiana legend Chris Thomas King, Eric Bibb and harmonica player Charlie Musslewhite.

‘Fusion that has actually, genuinely fused.’

The Independent ‘One of the most spellbinding of all blues and world music mergers.’

Downbeat Magazine

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Saturday 3 December 8pm £15 – Portman’s third album Coracle has been gathering momentum since its release along with a wave of glowing reviews. It was named ‘Best Album of 2015’ by The Telegraph and has received airplay on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio 2 and BBC 6 Music. The Coracle Band features a stellar cast of musicians in an ambitious live show. Joining Emily’s longstanding

collaborators Lucy Farrell (viola, saw, voice) and Rachel Newton (harp and voice), the Coracle Band features virtuosic string player Sam Sweeney (Bellowhead, BBC Folk Musician of the Year 2015) guitarist M G Boulter (Lucky Strikes) and classical percussionist Toby Kearney (2006 BBC Young Musician of the Year). Together the Coracle Band realise live the full breadth and beauty of Emily’s finest work to date.

‘Entrancing and unsettling.

A marvellous, original work.’

The Observer

Dick Gaughan Friday 9 December 8pm £12 – Dick Gaughan’s work has consistently been innovative and challenging both in message and form. Through his various incarnations as a member of Boys of the Lough, Five Hand Reel and Clan Alba, in occasional duos with Aly Bain, Andy Irvine, Johnny Cunningham, Brian McNeill and Allan Taylor, he has proved himself to be one of the hardest-working solo performers in any area of music. His songs have been recorded by artists including Billy Bragg, Christy Moore and Capercaillie and John Peel once said that he is ‘one of the 5 or 6 great voices of our time.’

Connie Lush Saturday 10 December 8pm £15 – Lush has been recognised as one of the finest Blues singers in the UK today. The winner of ‘Best Female Vocalist UK’ no less than five times has earned Connie her place in the Gallery of Greats, alongside Alexis

Belshazzar’s Feast

Lunchtime Concert

All Cellos Monday 12 December 1pm £14 – The cellos of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in a one hour lunchtime concert.

See page 31 for details.

Thursday 15 December 8pm £14 – Paul Sartin (Bellowhead, Faustus) and Paul Hutchinson (Hoover The Dog) with their ‘breathtaking and wickedly inventive [music]’ Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2.

See page 24 for details.

Corner and Eric Clapton to name just two. Her incredible stage presence and powerful vocal have also been recognised overseas as she was twice voted ‘European Blues Vocalist of the Year’ by the Blues Trophies Awards. Again, this year she is up for ‘Best British Female Blues Vocalist’ and ‘Best British Blues Album’ in the British Blues Awards 2016. No wonder

then that her two night residency in Music Room last year sold out.

‘A voice like 3am whiskey… enough electricity to power the national grid.’

The Times

Andy McKee Friday 16 December 8pm £18.50 – Andy McKee magically transforms the steel string guitar into a full orchestra with his use of altered tunings, tapping, partial capos, percussive hits and a signature two-handed technique. A Youtube sensation, McKee’s performances have to be seen to be believed. On tour to mark the release of his first live album Live Book, he promises some captivating live performances full of fan favourites.

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Family & Variety | 21

FAMILY & VARIETY

John Wilson & The John Wilson Orchestra

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Family Concert

Image Dan TDM Raymond Gubbay presents

League of Welldoers Benefit Show

Simply Gershwin

Monday 26 September 2pm £12 – A variety concert featuring compere Tony Ravel, plus eight well-known Liverpool entertainers. This three hour show for all the family is in support of The League of Welldoers, one of Liverpool’s oldest independent charities.

Dan TDM On Tour LI

Sunday 16 October 1.30pm & 7pm £15, £18, £21 – One of the most viewed YouTube creators on the planet in a live stage show.

See page 32 for details.

IT M

ED

Liverpool Philharmonic Experience Tour Friday 28 October & Saturday 13 May 11am £12, children £8 – Have you ever wondered what happens backstage or been curious about the workings of the UK’s oldest continuing professional symphony?

See page 23 for details.

Saturday 19 November 7.30pm £26.50, £32.50, £37.50, £43.50 – Gweneth-Ann Jeffers singer Njabulo Madlala singer Viv McLean piano

The Massed Bands of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Saturday 29 October 7.30pm £15, £18, £20, £25 – With over one hundred musicians on stage this concert is a display of the outstanding versatility of some of the world’s finest military musicians, featuring the full works - spectacular lighting and big screen imagery! Royal Marines Bands are renowned worldwide for their precision ceremonial marching displays and spectacular concerts. In their famous white pith helmets the Royal Marines Corps of Drums and Ceremonial Fanfare Trumpeters perform in the traditional Naval ‘sunset ceremony’. In aid of the Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity.

Gavin Sutherland conductor Manchester Concert Orchestra plus a glamorous ballroom duo and two sensational tap dancers.

– Broadway glamour and toetapping tunes in an all Gershwin extravaganza featuring the very best music, song and dance! George and Ira Gershwin wrote some of the most melodic music in the American songbook and this concert is packed with some of their most acclaimed work including ‘Someone to Watch Over Me’, excerpts from ‘Porgy and Bess’, ‘A Foggy Day in London Town’, ‘S’Wonderful’ and the iconic ‘Rhapsody in Blue’.

Intergalactic Journey Sunday 6 November 2.30pm £11, £15, £19 (adults) £8, £10, £12 (children) – Music from: Doctor Who E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Superman Star Wars: The Force Awakens – Jean-Claude Picard conductor Alasdair Malloy presenter

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra is ready to take off and go on a journey out of this world! With all the tunes you’ll recognise from Star Trek, Superman, the mighty and menacing Mars from Holst’s The Planets, the latest Star Wars film, The Force Awakens and many more, make sure you book your seats to join us on our intergalactic adventure. Why not dress up as your favourite intergalactic traveller?!

Liverpool Philharmonic Family Concerts are a great way for children and adults to experience the sights and sounds of a full symphony orchestra. The concerts are approximately an hour long and are designed with children in mind with lots of tunes that you’ll be familiar with. So come along and join in with the fun.

Fidgeting and wriggling are allowed!

Join us from 1.30pm in the Grand Foyer for a chance to try out instruments at our Instrument Petting Zoo.

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Sing-along with Santa

Monday 28 November 7.30pm £29.50, £37.50, £42.50, £47.50, £55.50 – Featuring hit songs and iconic sound tracks from the movies including Funny Girl, My Fair Lady, The Wizard of Oz, Hello Dolly, Star Wars, Gigi, Tom & Jerry at MGM, Gone with the Wind plus lots more! John Wilson’s handpicked orchestra of virtuoso players return with their brand new show of musical masterpieces from the movies.

Big Girls Don’t Cry Featuring the Eastcoast Boys, this criticallyacclaimed stage show celebrates the music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

Monday 5 December 7.30pm £26, £31 – During the 60s and 70s No1 hits ‘Sherry, December 1963 (Oh What a Night)’, ‘Walk

Our decorations are up, the Orchestra is in the mood for some festive cheer and our wonderful Melody Makers and Liverpool Philharmonic Children’s Choir are ready to kick start Christmas with lots of songs to sing-along and bopalong to. A special someone with a white beard and red coat will be dropping by so make sure you bring your friends and family, your best voice and your best moves as we all get ready to take Christmas by storm.

Come along and join in with the fun.

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Family Concert

‘Music from the Movies’

Saturday 17 December 11.30am & 2.30pm Sunday 18 December 11.30am & 2.30pm Thursday 22 December 2.30pm £14, £17, £26 (adults) £9, £10, £14 (children) – Michael Seal conductor Alasdair Malloy presenter Melody Makers Liverpool Philharmonic Children’s Choir –

Join us from one hour prior to each concert in the Grand Foyer for a chance to try out instruments at our Instrument Petting Zoo.

Like a Man’, ‘Rag Doll’ and ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’ saw the Four Seasons and lead singer Frankie Valli propelled to super stardom, selling a combined 100 million records nationwide.

Big Girls Don’t Cry authentically revives the sublime harmonies of New Jersey’s finest performers. This production showcases Frankie’s incredible falsettos and features solo hits that range from the rock’n’roll nostalgia of ‘Grease’, to the spine-tingling ‘ My Eyes Adored You’.

Raymond Gubbay presents

The Sound of Musicals Tuesday 27 December 7.30pm £17.50, £22.50, £25, £30, £36.50, £39.50, £42.50 – Four star soloists perform a new programme of showstopping music and songs from the greatest Broadway and West End musicals including Anything Goes, Oklahoma, Billy Elliot, Miss Saigon, Wicked, Hairspray, Aspects of Love, The Phantom of the Opera, Sunset Boulevard, Rent, Les Misérables and A Chorus Line.

An all-star line up from London’s glittering West End; Kerry Ellis, Joanna Ampil, Oliver Tompsett and Graham Bickley – Richard Balcombe conductor Manchester Concert Orchestra

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Talks, Tours & Taking Part | 23

Liverpool Philharmonic Experience Tours

TALKS, TOURS & TAKING PART

– Have you ever wondered what happens backstage, wanted to see the dressing rooms, been curious about the workings of the UK’s oldest continuing professional symphony orchestra or wanted to learn more about the heritage of our glorious Art Deco building? The Liverpool Philharmonic Experience is just the ticket…

Lunchtime Learning Image Liverpool Philharmonic Experience

Discover the Classics £15 (£10 claimants) – Discover the musical, social and historical stories behind some of the music, composers and artists in the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra’s season.

Discover the Classics sessions feature commentary by our host presenter, with added insight from Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musicians, conductors and guest artists, plus opportunities for questions, discussion and fun, lively debate.

Regular hosts are Classic FM Creative Director and Breakfast Show host, Tim Lihoreau, Jane Jones, presenter of Classic FM’s The Full Works concerts and the Weekend Breakfast Show, and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra cellist Gethyn Jones.

Saturday 17 September Tim Lihoreau is joined by Chief Conductor Vasily Petrenko to discuss the Beethoven symphonic cycle, the first four concerts of the season.

– Saturday 8 October Gethyn Jones is joined by Principal Clarinet Benjamin Mellefont to discuss Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto and provide commentary with plenty of opportunities for questions, discussion, fun and lively debate.

– Saturday 15 October Classic FM Creative Director and Breakfast Show host, Tim Lihoreau will discuss music

by Rachmaninov. See page 28 for concert details.

Sessions take place on Saturdays from 11 am to 1 pm in the Music Room, Liverpool Philharmonic.

Post-concert Question Time

– If you’ve ever left a Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra concert wanting to learn more about the performers or repertoire performed, this is your chance to ask! Join conductors and soloists in an informal question and answer session starting 15 minutes after the end of the concert in the Music.

Beethoven Finale Friday 30 September – Join Andrew Manze and Artist in Residence, James Ehnes, as the orchestra reach the conclusion of Beethoven’s Symphonies. See page 27 for concert details.

£15 (£10 claimants) – Whether you are new to classical music or a regular concert-goer, join composer and lecturer Ian Stephens for a daytime series of inspiring music and relaxed learning.

Workshops will often be followed by the opportunity to listen to the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in rehearsal.

Sessions last 2 to 2½ hours and take place in the Music Room.

The tours are accessible, but if you are a wheel-chair user or have access needs, please call us to make your booking, so we can accommodate your needs.

Liverpool Philharmonic Experience:

Liverpool Philharmonic Experience:

Play

Delve Deep

Friday 28 October & Saturday 13 May 11am £12, children £8 – A super-engaging experience for kids* and adults with musical surprises and untold tales. You’ll experience what it’s like to play an instrument centre-stage, hold the conductor’s baton and enjoy a live demonstration by a Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musician.

Thursday 10 November 2016, Thursday 26 January 2017 & Thursday 4 May 2017 11am £15 – In this tour delve deep into historical material from the archives, the Orchestra’s history and workings, hear some of the intriguing (and ghostly!) stories, gain a better understanding of a musician’s life and experience a live performance by a Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musician.

– Liverpool Philharmonic Experience:

Tours last approximately 90 minutes. *Suitable for children aged 5+

Discover Thursday 1 December 2016, Thursday 2 March 2017 & Thursday 25 May 2017 11am £15 – With Liverpool Philharmonic Experience: Discover Tour you’ll learn about the organisation’s rich heritage, explore some of the ‘secret spaces’ and enjoy a musical surprise by a Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musician.

Rehearsal Visit Wednesday 2 November 12.45pm Music of Dvořák, Berlioz and Górecki,with conductor Patrycja Pieczara and mezzosoprano Madeleine Shaw.

If you have a group of 30+ we can look at scheduling a tour for your group exclusively. Please call 0151 210 2901 for more information. Special rates are available for school groups.

Linked to the concert Dvorák Symphony No.7 on 3 November, see page 29 for details.

Beethoven and Friends Monday 5 December 12pm The first of three ‘Beethoven and Friends’ sessions (also on 15 May and 8 June) with the Ensemble of St Luke’s, a string quartet of Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musicians. In these sessions you’ll explore Beethoven’s string quartets, looking into some of the music that inspired him and the quartets that followed in his revolutionary footsteps.

Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto Thursday 13 October – Join conductor Nicholas Collon and Principal Clarinet Benjamin Mellefont.

See page 28 for concert details.

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Dedicate a Seat Dedicate a seat today for £150 a year and begin what becomes for many, a lifelong journey in supporting our work.

Sign up for Direct Debit and pay just £144 over 12 monthly payments of just £12.

– To learn more, please call the Development team on 0151 210 2921 or email fundraising@liverpoolphil.com or visit www.liverpoolphil.com/seat

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Christmas at Liverpool Philharmonic | 25 Raymond Gubbay Presents

CHRISTMAS

Carols by Candlelight

at Liverpool Philharmonic

Belshazzar’s Feast

Image Spirit of Christmas, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Chamber Music

Red Priest: Winter Baroque Carnival Friday 9 December 7.30pm St George’s Hall Concert Room £25 – Programme includes: Corelli Concerto Grosso in G minor ‘Christmas Concerto’ Vivaldi Winter from The Four Seasons Handel Suite from Messiah Sponsored by

They called him the Red Priest – but you probably know him better as Antonio Vivaldi. Led by recorder player extraordinaire Piers Adams, “Baroque supergroup” Red Priest puts the anarchy back into Baroque music, making every performance into a carnival.

‘Purists would probably run a mile from what Red Priest does to this music, but virtuosity, verve and creative spontaneity are fused together in a way that makes the impact positively volcanic’.

The Daily Telegraph

Roy Wood plus support The Vals Friday 9 December 7.30pm – The man behind the band Wizzard and the festive anthem ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday.’ See page 10 for details.

Big Band Wonderland Saturday 10 December 7.30pm & Tuesday 13 December 7.30pm £15, £20, £26, £32, £42

Let It Snow, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas Mary’s Boy Child, Winter Wonderland, White Christmas It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Roderick Dunk conductor Gary Williams singer Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Liverpool Welsh Choral Step into Christmas Sunday 11 December 2.30pm £13, £18, £22, £24, £27 – Keith Orrell conductor Louise Minchin presenter Stephen Hargreaves accompanist Northop Silver Band Liverpool Welsh Choral

Well, ring-a-ding-ding! There’s a reason why they call this the most wonderful time of the year, vocalist Gary Williams – back by public demand after his knockout performance at New Year 2015 – hosts the most stylish Christmas party Liverpool’s ever seen. This is your invitation to join Gary for a whole evening of the seasonal standards made famous by Bing Crosby, Johnny Mathis, Andy Williams and of course Ol’ Blue eyes – the smoothest of music, delivered with a swing by the biggest band in town the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Thursday 15 December 8pm Music Room £15 – Are they classical? Are they folk? Are they a category not even dreamed of yet by the reviewers? The answer to all three questions is undoubtedly YES - and they’re a lot more besides. Belshazzar’s Feast starts with traditional folk music, adds a touch of classical and jazz, throws in a bit of music hall and tops it all off with wry humour. Paul Sartin (Bellowhead, Faustus) on voice, fiddle and oboe plus Paul Hutchinson (Hoover The Dog) on voice and accordion ‘play like no-one else you’ve ever heard’, says Mike Harding (BBC 2 Radio), ‘Their music is breathtaking and wickedly inventive.’ And they love a Christmas sing song!

Monday 19 December 7.30pm £17.50, £22.50, £25, £30, £36.50, £39.50, £42.50 – Handel Zadok the Priest, Christmas sequence from Messiah Corelli Allegro and Pastorale from Christmas Concerto Bach Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, Air on the G String Mozart Laudate Dominum Cullen Joy to the World

And carols for all including; The First Nowell, O little town of Bethlehem, O come, all ye faithful, Good King Wenceslas, While Shepherds Watched, God Rest You Merry Gentlemen, Hark! the Herald Angels Sing – Mozart Festival Orchestra in full period costume Keri Fuge soprano Michael Bawtree conductor

Celebrate in the most elegant style with this exquisite concert of carols and seasonal classics staged in full 18th-Century costume in an evocative candlelit style setting.

It’s A Wonderful Life Saturday 24 December 11am & 2pm £9, £12 – Director Frank Capra Starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, Henry Travers 2hrs 9mins. 1947 USA

PG

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Spirit of Christmas Saturday 17, Sunday 18, Tuesday 20, Thursday 22 & Friday 23 December 7.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – John Suchet presenter Ian Tracey conductor Ksenija Sidorova accordion Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Choir Simon Emery Artistic Director, Youth Ensembles Sponsored by

Liverpool Philharmonic’s long established Carol Concerts, led

by Ian Tracey, are an unmissable part of Christmas on Hope Street. The full Orchestra and our terrific choruses serve up a mouthwatering spread of Yuletide music for the whole family: all your favourite and traditional carols – Silent Night, O Holy Night, Come all ye Faithful – mingled with seasonal readings from our host, Classic FM’s John Suchet. This year, there’s a very special surprise in the stocking – the show-stopping accordion playing of guest star Ksenija Sidorova, bringing some lovely Christmas treats.

Trust us, hearing is believing!

Entertainment guaranteed – plus, of course, a good old festive singalong!

Capra's perennial festive favourite, starring James Stewart as a desperate man offered salvation by an impish guardian angel. Beautifully crafted and acted, its humour and gentleness imbued at times with an almost Dickensian darkness, the film is now a cult classic, one of the most popular and enduring of all Christmas traditions.

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Family Concert

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Sing-along with Santa

Bring in the New Year

Saturday 17 December Thursday 22 December – Decorations are up, the Orchestra is in the mood for some festive cheer and our wonderful Melody Makers and Liverpool Philharmonic Children’s Choir are ready to kick start Christmas. See page 21 for full details.

Saturday 31 December 7.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Tom Richards conductor Joe Stilgoe singer Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra – Bring in the New Year with a real bang as singer, songwriter and all-round performer Joe

Stilgoe pays tribute to the music that brought Hollywood to life with all-time classics from and inspired by the greatest films over the last century. ‘Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head’, ‘It Had to Be You’, ‘Stuck in the Middle’, ‘Ain’t that a Kick in the Head’, ‘Great Balls of Fire’, ‘Surrey with the Fringe onTop’, ‘Goodnight Sweetheart’,’ Live and Let Die’ and many more… so come and join us for a musical romp down memory lane.

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Classical Music | 27

CLASSICAL MUSIC

Pastoral

Chamber Music

Thursday 22 September 7.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Beethoven Symphony No.6 ‘Pastoral’ Beethoven Symphony No.7 Beethoven Symphony No.8 – Vasily Petrenko conductor Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Tuesday 27 September 7.30pm St George’s Hall Concert Room £25 – Bach Sonata No.1, Partita No.1, and Sonata No.3

With its birdsong, horn-calls and playful musical jokes, there’s no experience in music more life-affirming than Beethoven’s ever-fresh ‘Pastoral’ symphony. And there’s none more gloriously, exuberantly physical than his unstoppable seventh – the piece that made even Wagner jump up and dance.

Petrenko’s journey through Beethoven’s symphonies reaches two of the most enduringly popular masterpieces in all music – and follows them with the irresistible eighth symphony.

Sponsored by

Image Vasily Petrenko, Chief Conductor

James Ehnes, violin

A revolution doesn’t have to be noisy: sometimes all it takes is one man and a violin. Over two extraordinary concerts, our Artist in Residence James Ehnes plays all of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin – some of the most sophisticated and yet piercingly beautiful music ever created for a bow and four strings. A universe in a grain of sand: there’s no greater, or purer, challenge for any artist or any audience. Be there, and be transported.

Sponsored by

Beethoven Finale Friday 30 September 7.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Beethoven Violin Concerto Mendelssohn Incidental Music, Midsummer Night’s Dream – Andrew Manze conductor James Ehnes violin Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir (Ladies Voices) Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Chamber Music

Eroica Thursday 15 September 7.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Beethoven Symphony No.1 Beethoven Symphony No.2 Beethoven Symphony No.3 ‘Eroica’ – Vasily Petrenko conductor Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

What a way to open a season – from the anarchic chords that open his First symphony to the heaven-storming song of brotherhood that ends his ninth, the symphonies of Ludwig van Beethoven are more than just music: they’re acts of revolution. Tonight, for the first time, Vasily Petrenko and the Orchestra begin the greatest adventure an orchestra and conductor can take together. The first two symphonies are the sound of a young genius stretching his wings and then, with the two mighty chords that open the Eroica, changing music forever. They’ll knock you backwards.

Sponsored by

Classic Intro 6.15pm (Music Room) Stephen Johnson speaks about Beethoven’s symphonies as the orchestra embarks upon the complete cycle in September. Stephen broadcasts frequently for BBC Radio 3,4 and the World Service. He presents BBC Radio 3’s Discovering Music and is a regular contributor to BBC Music Magazine. This talk is free to all ticket holders.

James Ehnes, violin

Duh-duh-duhdummmmm!

Saturday 17 September 7.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Berlioz Overture, Roman Carnival Beethoven Symphony No.4 Berlioz Overture, Le Corsaire Beethoven Symphony No.5 – Vasily Petrenko conductor Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Everyone knows the first four notes of Beethoven’s Fifth symphony – but if that’s all you’ve heard, you’re in for a thrilling surprise, as Vasily Petrenko’s Beethoven cycle arrives at the most famous symphony of all time. Prepare to be electrified – and to be delighted, too, by the Fifth’s prettier, funnier little sister: the sparkling Fourth symphony. Two swashbuckling overtures from fellow-revolutionary Hector Berlioz – Beethoven’s number one fan, who never wrote a single note without passion – will sweep you off your feet.

Sponsored by

Tuesday 4 October 7.30pm St George’s Hall Concert Room £25 – Bach Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin: Partita No.3, Sonata No.2 and Partita No.2

Sunday 25 September 2.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Berlioz Les Nuits d’été Beethoven Symphony No.9 ‘Choral’ – Vasily Petrenko conductor Veronika Dzhioeva soprano Anna Stéphany mezzo-soprano Timothy Robinson tenor Konstantin Wolff bass-baritone Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Post-concert Question Time - starts 15 minutes after the concert (Music Room) Join Andrew Manze and our Artist in Residence, James Ehnes, as we reach the conclusion of Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Beethoven cycle.

Sponsored by

A Kind of Magic Saturday 8 October 7.30pm – A sensational full orchestral spectacular of Queen’s greatest hits. See page 5 for details.

Over two extraordinary concerts, Artist in Residence James Ehnes plays all of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin – some of the most sophisticated and yet piercingly beautiful music ever created for a bow and four strings. A universe in a grain of sand: there’s no greater, or purer, challenge for any artist or any audience. Be there, and be transported.

Ode to Joy

Beethoven’s Ninth symphony is the summit of any Beethoven cycle – and some might say of classical music itself. But there’s a lifetime of experience to live through before we get to its triumphant climax and tonight Vasily Petrenko, the Orchestra and the acclaimed Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir come together to plumb its depths, scale its heights, and celebrate together in that final, transcendent Ode to Joy. Six ravishing songs for mezzo-soprano of longing from fellow-radical hector Berlioz set the scene: as Beethoven once put it, music that comes from the heart and goes to the heart.

When Felix Mendelssohn transformed the words of Shakespeare into music, he created sounds like no-one had ever heard. Guest conductor Andrew Manze weaves the spell: here be fairies, lovers, and of course a man with the head of a donkey. They’re all there in Mendelssohn’s enchanted score; first though, we end our Beethoven cycle with Artist in Residence, James Ehnes, and the most serene masterpiece Beethoven ever wrote...music to refresh the spirit, played by one of the world’s finest living violinists.

Sponsored by

Lunchtime Concert

Ensemble 10/10: 23 Songs of a Mad Woman Wednesday 5 October 8pm Music Room £15 – James Wishart 23 Songs of a Madwoman Dot.Song Tango in L – Clark Rundell conductor Ensemble 10/10

Music, madness and a tango bent at a very strange angle… welcome to the incredible soundworld of Liverpool composer James Wishart for his 60th birthday. Clark Rundell and Liverpool Philharmonic’s contemporary classical music group Ensemble 10/10 gave the very first performances of much of this music: close up in the Music Room, there’s no more thrilling, fascinating or magical way to get inside the head of a true Merseyside original.

Sponsored by

Cello Sonata Monday 10 October 1pm Music Room £8 – Delius Cello Sonata Frank Bridge Four pieces for Cello and Piano / Cello Sonata / Spring Song – Liubov Ulybysheva cello John Paul Ekins piano

Join us in the Music Room for a musical interlude to your busy day with our series of Lunchtime Concerts by musicians and ensembles from the Orchestra, and last about an hour.

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto

Clarinet Benjamin Mellefont. Berlioz’s comedy overture kicks things off with a wink.

Thursday 13 October & Friday 14 October 7.30pm £15, £20, £26, £32, £42 – Berlioz Overture, Béatrice et Bénédict Mozart Clarinet Concerto Shostakovich Symphony No.5 – Nicholas Collon conductor Benjamin Mellefont clarinet Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony isn’t just a matter of life and death – it’s more important than that. Written as an answer to Stalin at a time when one wrong note would have landed Shostakovich in the Gulag, it’s one of 20th-century music’s true epics, told in music of raw feeling. It’ll make a powerful Liverpool debut for one of the UK’s most talked-about young conductors – and a striking contrast to Mozart’s beloved Clarinet Concerto, played by Principal

Romantic Rachmaninov Thursday 20 October 7.30pm £15, £20, £26, £32, £42 – Ravel La Valse Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No.2 Stravinsky Scherzo à la Russe Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances – Vasily Petrenko conductor Alexandre Tharaud piano Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Mists swirl, a ghostly waltz echoes in the distance – and Ravel’s La Valse launches an evening-long voyage through a haunted century. You may already know Rachmaninov’s most romantic piano concerto, often described as the best piano concerto ever written, and when you hear pianist Alexandre Tharaud’s recent disc with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, out in October, you’ll know to expect far more than just a brief encounter in this concert! Then we join two Russians in America: Stravinsky jazzing it up, Rachmaninov looking back over a long life in his sumptuous Symphonic Dances – joys, regrets, and melodies to die for. Vasily Petrenko feels this music in his soul.

Sponsored by

Classical Music | 29

Carl Davis’ 80th Birthday

Chamber Music

Jamie Barton, mezzosoprano and James Baillieu, piano

Post-concert Question Time (Thursday 13 October, Music Room) - starts 15 minutes after the concert.

Join conductor Nicholas Collon and Principal Clarinet Benjamin Mellefont.

Russian Revolution Sunday 23 October 2.30pm £15, £20, £26, £32, £42 – Rachmaninov The Rock Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No.2 Stravinsky Scherzo à la Russe Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances – Vasily Petrenko conductor Alexandre Tharaud piano Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Rachmaninov’s sumptuous Symphonic Dances are the sound of a great artist in exile, drenched in joy, regret, and those wonderful Rachmaninov melodies. Vasily Petrenko has matched it with Rachmaninov’s youthful poem of love and loss, The Rock, plus an outrageously jazzy bit of fun from Rachmaninov’s Hollywood neighbour Stravinsky.

Wednesday 19 October 7.30pm St George’s Hall Concert Room £25 – Turina Homage to Lope de Vega Dvorák Gypsy Songs Op.55 Sibelius Six Songs Brahms Selection of Lieder – Jamie Barton mezzo-soprano James Baillieu piano

British audiences first discovered the American mezzo Jamie Barton when she swept the board at the 2013 Cardiff Singer of the World competition. But even without her keen musical intelligence – and that radiant voice – this song recital would be worth hearing for Barton’s wonderfully imaginative choice of music: favourites by Brahms and Dvořák mingling with exquisite rediscoveries

by Sibelius and Joaquín Turina.

Sponsored by

Friday 28 October 7.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Programme includes: Bernstein Overture, Candide Carl Davis Themes from: Pride and Prejudice, The World at War, the chariot race from Ben Hur, Ballade for Cello and Orchestra Walton Battle of Britain – Carl Davis CBE (Hon) conductor Aled Jones presenter Jonathan Aasgaard cello

Carl Davis has been a conductor and close friend of the Orchestra, and loved by our audiences for more than 50 years. Join Carl on the day of his 80th birthday for a night of music that celebrates his life, his love of music and his work, introduced by presenter and friend Aled Jones. With a career that spans decades and with scores and scores of music for film and TV it was impossible to choose the favourites, so we asked Carl! Starting with Bernstein’s buzzing Overture to Candide to Carl’s own music, including the exhausting and exhilarating Chariot Race from Ben Hur, to his television music for Pride and Prejudice and The World at War, this evening will be filled with the soundtrack of one of the UK’s most prolific and best-loved composers.

Close Up

The Soldier’s Tale Ensemble 10/10: Call of the North Wednesday 26 October 7.30pm St George’s Hall Concert Room £15 – John McCabe Rainforest Gary Carpenter Bermuda Suite and Dolphin Bethan Morgan-Williams New Work

Kenneth Hesketh Theatre of Attractions – Clark Rundell conductor Ensemble 10/10 (World Premiere)

‘There’s a sense of positive musical creativity in Liverpool’ says composer Kenneth Hesketh, who took siren whistles, images of cinema and that golden glow at the end of the day to create his riotous Theatre of Attractions. Gary Carpenter takes a tropical journey, the late John McCabe loses himself in the Australian jungle, and amidst all the colour and action, new voices make themselves heard with a World Premiere from Christopher Brooks Composition Prize winner, Bethan Morgan-Williams.

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Sunday 30 October 8pm Music Room £15 – Stravinsky The Soldier’s Tale Jim Stephenson The Devil’s Tale

– Frank Cottrell-Boyce narrator Timothy Jackson conductor Benjamin Mellefont clarinet Gareth Twigg bassoon Brendan Ball trumpet / cornet Simon Cowen trombone Mihkel Kerem violin Anthony Williams double bass (UK Premiere)

A weary soldier, a sinister stranger, and a deal that seems too good to be true. At the end of the Great War, Igor Stravinsky created a miniature musical drama with a deadly sting in its tail. Members of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and narrator Frank Cottrell-Boyce come together to make this fateful bargain – and then for the first time in the UK, American composer Jim Stephenson turns the whole thing wickedly on its head with a sequel to The Soldier’s Tale.

Chamber Music

Kalichstein-LaredoRobinson Trio Tuesday 1 November 7.30pm St Georges Hall Concert Room £25 – Beethoven String Trio in B flat major Op.11 Shostakovich Piano Trio No.2 in E minor Op.67 Brahms Piano Trio No.1 in B major Op.8 (revised)

Since their debut at the White House in 1977, the Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio have built a worldwide reputation – and in their fortieth year, and still performing with their original line-up, they’re arguably the world’s finest Piano Trio. In this rare Liverpool appearance they explore the heartland of the trio repertoire – youthful Beethoven, Brahms at his most ardently romantic, and Shostakovich’s searingly personal Second Trio.

Sponsored by

L’après-midi Thursday 10 November 7.30pm & Friday 11 November 2.30pm £15, £20, £26, £32, £42 – Debussy Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune Saint-Saëns Piano Concerto No.2 Brahms Symphony No.3 – Cristian Mandeal conductor Ian Fountain piano Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Dvorák Symphony No.7 Thursday 3 November 7.30pm £15, £20, £26, £32, £42 – Henryk Górecki Two Tristan Postludes and Chorale

Berlioz Death of Cleopatra Dvor˘ák Symphony No.7 – Patrycja Pieczara conductor Madeleine Shaw mezzo-soprano Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

(UK Premiere - orchestrated by Mikolaj Górecki)

You already know Dvořák’s symphony from the new world - now hear his symphonic homage to the old. Stormy, passionate and filled with all those lovable, lilting Dvořák melodies, the Seventh Symphony is something of a speciality for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra; so we’re thrilled to be discovering it anew with the debut of young Polish conductor Patrycja Pieczara. Pieczara’s known for taking a fresh perspective, so she’s paired it with an atmospheric miniature from the worldfamous Polish composer of the symphony of sorrowful songs, plus Berlioz’s hot-blooded historical melodrama Cleopatra – sung by Madeleine Shaw with the voice of a queen!

“Free but happy” is the motto of Brahms’s Third Symphony, and from sweeping opening to majestic sunset of a finish, he never wrote anything more personal or poetic. It’s a long way from the silken sensuality of Debussy’s Prélude. But as Romanian conductor Cristian Mandeal knows, music’s all about the journey – and it’s been said that Saint-Saëns’ second Piano Concerto begins in a nunnery and ends in revelry! We just know that it’s packed with catchy tunes, and with the renowned British pianist Ian Fountain at the keyboard, it springs to life.

Sponsored by

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Benedetti’s Brahms Thursday 17 November 7.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Barber First Essay for Orchestra Brahms Violin Concerto Strauss Don Juan Strauss Suite from Der Rosenkavalier – Robert Trevino conductor Nicola Benedetti violin Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Sponsored by

Classical Music | 31 There’s only one Nicola Benedetti – and there’s only one Brahms Violin Concerto.

Combine Britain’s favourite violinist with one of the world’s most romantic violin concertos, add the young American powerhouse maestro Robert Trevino (for the first time in Liverpool), and – well, enough said, really! Except this concert also features Richard Strauss at his most shamelessly seductive, retelling the legend of history’s greatest lothario before slipping between the silken sheets of his gorgeous Der Rosenkavalier suite.

And if you love Barber’s Adagio for Strings, you really need to hear his atmospheric First Essay.

New World

Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Sunday 27 November 2.30pm £9 adults /£6 under 25s /£2 Liverpool Young Musician Pass – Berlioz Overture, Les Francs-Juges Górecki Three Dances Op.34 Saint-Saëns Symphony No.3 ‘Organ’ – Simon Emery conductor Ian Tracey organ Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra

Thursday 1 December 7.30pm & Friday 2 December 2.30pm £15, £20, £26, £32, £42 – Hindemith Concert Music for Brass and Strings Chopin Piano Concerto No.1 Dvor˘ák Symphony No.9 ‘From the New World’ – Vasily Petrenko conductor Seong-Jin Cho piano

‘Unequivocally brilliant’ says one critic of the young Korean pianist Seong-Jin Cho. ‘Seemed to summon the spirit of Chopin from the air’ declared another of this winner of the 2015 International Chopin Competition in Warsaw. So there probably isn’t a pianist on earth right now betterequipped to bring out all the poetry of the teenage Chopin’s ardent First Concerto!

Petrenko frames it with Hindemith’s Concert Music for Brass and Strings, and Dvořák’s much-loved ‘New World’ symphony for a whole concert of music that’s all about emotion.

Close Up

Elgar’s Cello Concerto Benedetti’s Brahms Sunday 20 November 2.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Strauss Don Juan Brahms Violin Concerto Sibelius Symphony No.1 – Robert Trevino conductor Nicola Benedetti violin Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

A flurry of strings, a blast of trumpets: as Richard Strauss’s Don Juan – a real Casanova of a character – rockets into action. There’s a no-holds-barred opening to a whole afternoon of musical adventure at its swashbuckling best.

Sibelius’s First Symphony is the sound of a nation awakening to freedom: its epic tunes and thundering powerchords will be perfect for the “breathtaking” young American maestro Robert Trevino. First though, Nicola Benedetti plays Brahms: the nation’s favourite violinist in one of the most romantic violin concertos of all time. Hold on to your seats…

Chamber Music

Ehnes Quartet Wednesday 23 November 7.30pm St George’s Hall Concert Room £25 – Mozart String Quartet in B flat major K589 ‘Prussian’ Bartók String Quartet No.4 Dvorák Selections from Cypresses Tchaikovsky String Quartet No.1

Artist in Residence James Ehnes and his quartet explore three landmarks of the quartet repertoire, plus Dvořák’s enchanting Cypresses – a magical bonus.

‘An impressive programme from an impressive group of musicians. The bravura of the players certainly left an impression...’ Bachtrack

Thursday 24 November 7:30pm £15, £20, £26, £32, £42 – Debussy Printemps Elgar Cello Concerto Rachmaninov Sprint Cantata Borodin Symphony No.2 – Vasily Petrenko conductor Kian Soltani cello Rodion Pogossov baritone Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

In Russia, the return of spring feels like falling in love. In France, it’s a bit more subtle – but just as beautiful. True, it’s still November in Liverpool, but Vasily Petrenko has it both ways, whether in Rachmaninov’s impassioned forgotten choral masterpiece, or Debussy’s blossoming celebration of new life. Add the wood smoke and memories of Elgar’s nostalgic, hugely popular Cello Concerto, played by the charismatic Kian Soltani, and the sheer drama of Borodin’s rollicking mini-epic of a Russian symphony, and this is a concert for all seasons.

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Sponsored by

Ksenija Sidorova, accordion Lunchtime Concert

Monday 19 December 8pm Music Room £15 – The special guest from the Orchestra’s Spirit of Christmas concerts crosses to the intimacy of the Music Room. This close up experience with world famous accordionist Ksenija Sidorova guarantees an evening of mesmerising music. Full of passion, fiercely energetic and compelling to watch, wait ‘til you hear her play! The versatility of this instrument will be evident in a programme of music that Ksenija loves the most, including works from Mozart as well as some less known composers who have written for the instrument including Kusiakov, Voitenko and Schnittke.

Sponsored by

All Cellos Monday 12 December 1pm £8 – Jonathan Aasgaard / Hilary Browning Ian Bracken / Gethyn Jones Stephen Mann / Ruth Owens Alexander Holladay / Mark Lindley Liubov Ulybysheva – Programme includes: Barber Adagio for Strings Carlos Gardel Tango ‘Por Una Cabeza’ Wagner Liebestod from Tristan and Isolde Ian Stephens Dance for Eight

Raymond Gubbay Presents

New Year’s Day Prom Sunday 1 January 2.30pm £17.50, £22.50, £25, £30, £36.50, £39.50, £42.50 – A thrilling concert of rousing classics with a grand flag waving British finale!

Sibelius Finlandia Sousa Stars and Stripes Forever Bizet Danse Bohème Tchaikovsky Nutcracker Suite Puccini O soave fanciulla Verdi ‘Sempre libera’ & ‘Brindisi’ from La traviata Suppe Light Cavalry Overture Verdi La donna è mobile Grieg Morning and In the Hall of the Mountain King Elgar Nimrod from Enigma Variations

And all your Proms favourites; Hornpipe, Rule, Britannia! Jerusalem, Nessun Dorma and Land of Hope and Glory.

– Ilona Domnich soprano Alexander James Edwards tenor John Pryce-Jones conductor Manchester Concert Orchestra

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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Comedy & Spoken Word | 33

COMEDY & SPOKEN WORD

D T OU

Wednesday 12 October 7.30pm – Professor Brian Cox takes science to a new dimension in this new live stage show.

Image Romesh Ranganathan

Sue Perkins Live! in Spectacles

Dan TDM On Tour

Romesh Ranganathan: Irrational

‘His ability to produce bitingly fresh gags marks him out from the crowd’. The Guardian

ED

Wednesday 21 September 8pm £18.50, £24.50 – Romesh examines the issues close to his heart, and explains why everybody else is wrong about them. Romesh has come a long way since quitting his career as a maths teacher making a real name for himself most recently with his critically acclaimed BBC3 series Asian Provocateur.

The last two years have been incredible for Ranganathan with his two critically acclaimed Edinburgh Festival shows, Rom Wasn’t Built In A Day and Rom Com being nominated for the coveted Edinburgh Festival Awards for ‘Best Show’ 2014 and ‘Best Newcomer’ in 2013. This new show promises to be as much of a hit!

Sunday 16 October 1.30pm & 7pm £15, £18, £21 – For the first time ever, Dan TDM, one of the world’s biggest YouTubers is on tour. Featuring fun for all the family, however old, the show sees characters from Dan’s world live on stage.

Dan’s videos have amassed more than 12 million subscribers and nearly 7 billion views across his two award-winning YouTube channels, making him one of the most viewed YouTube creators on the planet.

IT M

‘Warm, crisp and beautifully layered - like its author, Spectacles is a complete delight.’

Independent on Sunday

Liverpool Comedy Festival

LI

Tuesday 13 September 8pm £24.50, £30.50 Each ticket includes a copy of Sue’s new book ‘Spectacles’ (RRP £7.99) to be collected on the night. Sue will be signing copies after the show.

– An evening with Sue Perkins packed full of sparkling wit, great stories, a user’s guide to Mary Berry and the very best bits from her hilarious bestselling memoir ‘Spectacles’.

Sue is best known for being one quarter of double act Mel and Sue. In 2008 she won the BBC show Maestro culminating in her conducting at The Last Night of the Proms. She has collaborated with food-critic Giles Coren on the Supersizers series, created the acclaimed travel documentary The Mekong River with Sue Perkins and is a regular contributor to Have I Got News For You, Just a Minute, QI and The News Quiz. Oh, and apparently she does some cake show on BBC1.

Sean Lock: Keep It Light

L SO

Professor Brian Cox Live

Laughterhouse Live Saturday 24 September 8pm £20, £25, £31 – Join Liverpool's biggest comedy promoter for another side-splitting night of comedy at Liverpool Philharmonic.

The latest in a long line of fantastic comedy shows sees six comedy giants joined by the brand new Liverpool Echo ‘Comedian of the Year’ for a night to remember. Already confirmed are Andy Askins (The John Bishop Show, The Comedy Store), Neil Fitzmaurice (Phoenix Nights, The Office) and Andrew Maxwell (Ex On The Beach) with more fantastic acts to be added.

Owen Jones The Politics of Hope Thursday 27 October 7.30pm £12, £18 – How can we build societies run in the interests of working people, not run as a racket for the mean and the greedy at the top? By looking at some

Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult

alternatives across the world, we can end the inevitability of widening inequalities and injustice. The popular Guardian columnist and author of Chavs: The Demonisation of the Working Class and The Establishment – And How They Get Away With It shines some light on a positive way forward.

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

Sunday 20 & Monday 21 November 8pm £25, £31. Suitable for those aged 15 years and over.

– Every three years the comedian Sean Lock writes and tours a new stand-up show. Well he’s only gone and done it again!

What’s he like? Come and see what he’s blithering on about this time.

Stewart Lee: Digital Content Provider Wednesday 2 November 8pm £22.50, £28.50 Ticket price includes a special limited edition of STEWART LEE’S COMEDY VEHICLE Series 4 DVD (RRP £19.99) to be collected on the night.

Stewart will sign copies after the show.

– This is one of a special run of Stewart Lee gigs celebrating the DVD launch of the acclaimed BBC series STEWART LEE’S COMEDY VEHICLE Series 4.

Ross Noble: Brain Dump Saturday 5 November 8pm £25, £31. Suitable for those aged 15 years and over.

– Everybody’s favourite randomist is back. He always he has a lot of stuff backing up in his head and it’s time to let it all out. Come and be part of this truly unique stand up experience. Join him as audience and performer come together for a massive Brain Dump: With an on-stage presence like no other, his exuberance, spontaneity and cerebral style have established Noble up there with the best-loved comedians. Freewheeling and off the cuff join the master surrealist as he uses his infinite imagination for a night of tomfoolery.

Stewart Lee performs a live show including new material being prepared for his Content Provider tour, and each ticket will include a very special limited edition copy of the new DVD (launched 10/10/2016).

Each DVD comes in a limited edition slip-cover designed by artist Luke Drozd - exclusively available to bookers of this show.

‘He just lets the brilliance of his material dominate the room.’

The Guardian ‘Lock at his best is gloriously intelligent, deliciously unlikely and hilariously funny.’

The Times

‘Lee remains one of the best stand-ups in the country.’

Metro ★★★★

An Evening with

Sir Michael Parkinson Friday 2 December 8pm £27.50, £33.50 – Celebrate the life and career of a man who in over 50 years in the business, has interviewed over 2000 of the most important cultural figures of the 20th and 21st centuries and won awards for journalism, radio and television broadcasting. In conversation with his son Mike and showing highlights from the Parkinson archive, this is a unique opportunity to get an intimate, entertaining and informative look at his remarkable journey.

‘Imagine Dave Allen teaching media studies.’

Evening Standard

‘The wizard-haired Geordie remains in full possession of his nimble-witted, slacker minded impro skills. One of comedy’s greatest marvels.’

Daily Telegraph

Laughterhouse Live Sunday 11 December 8pm £25, £31. Suitable for those aged 15 years and over.

– Laughterhouse brings you another amazing night of entertainment, featuring six giants of comedy. Already confirmed in this amazing lineup is; Stewart Francis, Joe Lycett, The Boy with Tape on His Face, Tanyalee Davis, MC Chris Cairns! One more headline act to announce shortly - watch this space!

Ken Dodd - The Happiness Show, 25th Anniversary Wednesday 28 & Thursday 29 December 7pm £16, £18, £20, £25 – The ‘Master of Mirth’ returns to mark the not inconsiderable milestone of 25 years of The Happiness Show at Liverpool Philharmonic. Dodd is a comedian of unrivalled status who has been entertaining audiences for a lifetime of laughter. A festive fixture for a quarter of a century this show will be an extra special celebration. Join Ken for an evening filled with laughter and wonderful songs from him and his variety guests.

‘Bring blankets. Bring breakfast… Performing on stage at 87, the comedian is still in it for the long haul.’

The Guardian

Book now at www.liverpoolphil.com

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FILM

I, Daniel Blake

The antidote to the multiplex, watching a film at Liverpool Philharmonic is a unique experience. The last remaining working Walturdaw cinema screen in the world rises from the stage accompanied by resident organist Dave Nicholas.

Image The BFG

Absolutely Fabulous 15 Tuesday 6 September 7.30pm £7, £8 – Director Mandie Fletcher Starring Jennifer Saunders, Joanna Lumley, Julia Sawalha,Celia Imrie, Chris Colfer, Kathy Burke 1hr 30mins. 2016 UK – Edina (Jennifer Saunders) and Patsy (Joanna Lumley) are still oozing glitz and glamour. But when they accidentally push Kate Moss into the river Thames at an uber fashionable launch party, Eddy and Patsy become entangled in a media storm surrounding the supermodel’s untimely demise so flee to the playground of the super-rich, the French Riviera.

Psycho: 15 Film with Live Orchestra!

Monday 31 October 7.30pm £19, £25, £33, £38, £45 – Anthony Gabriele conductor Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

The BFG

The Beatles: Eight Days A Week – The Touring Years

TBC

Tuesday 20 September 7.30pm £7, £8 – Director Ron Howard Starring Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, John Lennon, George Harrison 2016 USA – The band you know. The story you don't. Academy Awardwinner Ron Howard’s authorised and highly anticipated documentary feature film uses rare and exclusive footage to explore the first part of The Beatles’ career (1962-1966). See how Lennon, McCartney, Harrison and Starr came together to become this extraordinary phenomenon, The Beatles.

PG

Tuesday 18 October 7.30pm £7, £8 – Director Steven Spielberg Starring Mark Rylance (voice), Ruby Barnhill, Rebecca Hall, Rafe Spall 1hr 57mins. 2016 UK – The talents of two of the world’s greatest storytellers – Roald Dahl and Steven Spielberg unite in this magical and visually stunning new film of Dahl’s classic story. The BFG is the exciting tale of a young girl named Sophie (played by British newcomer Ruby Barnhill) and the mysterious Giant - The BFG (played by Oscar Winner Mark Rylance) who introduces her to the wonders and perils of Giant Country.

‘Offers magic and visual delights, and the final act is a treat.’

Empire

TBC

Wednesday 16 November 7.30pm £7, £8 – Director Ken Loach Starring Dave Johns, Hayley Squires, Dylan McKiernan.

Briana Shann 1hr 40mins. 2016 UK – Winner of this year’s ‘Palme d’Or’ at the Cannes Film Festival this Ken Loach film, with all the character, wit and humanity you would expect from this director, tells the story of Daniel Blake (59) who has worked most of his life in Newcastle. Now, for the first time ever, he needs help from the State. He crosses paths with a single mother Katie and her two young children. Katie's only chance to escape a one-roomed homeless hostel in London has been to accept a flat in a city she doesn't know, some 300 miles away. Daniel and Katie find themselves caught on the barbed wire of welfare bureaucracy in modern day Britain.

WINNER

‘It's a work of scalding and moving relevance.’

Variety

It’s A Wonderful Life

ULTIMATE 100 BRITISH HOTELS 2015

PG

Saturday 24 December 11am & 2pm £9, £12 – See page 25 for details.

This Halloween, what better way to give yourself the fright of your life than with this bigscreen showing at the art-deco Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, with Herrmann’s score performed live by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra? Join us if you dare: it’s about to get real…

Booking fees Online and phone 7.50% per order administrative fee applies, this includes all costs and standard postage is free.

In Person No fees for cash or debit card payments. Credit card payments incur a 2% transaction fee and cheque payments are subject to 70p per order charge.

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Whats on Guide_August-December 2016.qxp_Layout 1 22/07/2016 10:02 Page 36 Diary | 37

36 |

DIARY How to Book Online at www.liverpoolphil.com

Post Box Office, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BP

Telephone 0151 709 3789

In person Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BP

Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5.30pm Sunday 12noon – 5pm

Monday to Saturday 10am to 5.30pm and 90 minutes prior to each performance

Plan Your Visit For full booking information, directions and terms & conditions please visit www.liverpoolphil.com/ planyourvisit, where you can also see the view from your seat on our seating plan.

All major credit cards accepted (and are subject to a booking fee) Mastercard/Visa. We do not accept AMEX. Please make cheques payable to ‘RLPS’.

Key * Music Room / ** St George’s Hall Concert Room

September 2016 Fri Sat Sat Tue Thu Fri Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Fri Sat Sat Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Sun Mon Tue Thu Fri Fri Fri

2 3 3 6 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 16 17 17 20 21 22 23 24 25 25 26 27 29 30 30 30

7.30pm 8pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 11am 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 2.30pm 8pm 2pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm

P4 Fatback Band P4 Musical Threads Django’s Legacy* P12 Film: Absolutely Fabulous P34 Leveret* P12 The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Show P4 P12 Mawkin* Daniel O’Donnell Live In Concert SOLD OUT Pxx Sue Perkins Live! in Spectacles P32 Leon Rosselson* P12 RLPO: Eroica P26 Nathan Carter and his band P4 Roddy Woomble* P13 Discover the Classics* P22 RLPO: Duh-duh-duhdummmmm!

P26 Film: The Beatles: Eight Days A Week P34 Romesh Ranganathan: Irrational P32 RLPO: Pastoral P26 RURA* P13 Laughterhouse Live P32 RLPO: Ode to Joy P26 Lulo Reinhardt and Andre Krengel ...* P13 League of Welldoers P20 James Ehnes, violin** P27 Keston Cobblers’ Club* P13 RLPO: Beethoven Finale P27 Post-concert Question Time* P22 Thomas Lang Album Launch* P13

October 2016 Sun Sun Tue Tue Wed Thu Thu Fri Sat Sat Sun Sun Mon Mon Wed Wed Thu Thu Fri Fri

2 2 4 4 5 6 6 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 12 12 13 13 14 14

7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 11am 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 1pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm

The Simon & Garfunkel Story Andy Irvine* James Ehnes, violin** Woodie Guthrie* Ensemble 10/10: 23 Songs ... * Elaine Paige Heidi Talbot* Catfish Keith* Discover the Classics RLPO: A Kind of Magic Explosions In The Sky Ragged Union Bluegrass* Lunchtime Concert: Cello Sonata* Level 42 Professor Brian Cox Live SOLD OUT O’Hooley & Tidow* RLPO: Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto Post-concert Question Time* RLPO: Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto We Banjo 3*

P5 P13 P27 P14 P14 P5 P14 P14 P22 P5 P5 P14 P27 P5 P32 P14 P28 P22 P28 P6

Sat Sat Sat Sun Sun Sun Tue Wed Wed Thu Thu Fri Fri Sat Sun Sun Sun Mon Wed Wed Thu Thu Fri Fri Sat Sun Sun Mon

15 15 15 16 16 16 18 19 19 20 20 21 21 22 23 23 23 24 26 26 27 27 28 28 29 30 30 31

11am 7.30pm 8pm 1.30pm 7pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 2.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 11am 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm

Discover the Classics The Hollies The Lindisfarne Story* Dan TDM On Tour Dan TDM On Tour Lynched* Film: The BFG Jamie Barton & James Baillieu** Scott Fagan plus Stephen Steinbrink* RLPO: Romantic Rachmaninov George Monbiot and Ewan McLennan* Sixties Gold Blue Rose Code* Robyn Hitchcock* RLPO: Russian Revolution Damien Dempsey* Loudon Wainwright III Pink Martini Jimmy Osmond: Moon River and Me Ensemble 10/10: Call of the North** Owen Jones - The Politics of Hope The Rite of Spring David Patrick Octet* Liverpool Philharmonic Experience RLPO: Carl Davis’ 80th Birthday The Massed Bands of Her Majesty’s ...

Charlie Landsborough Close Up: The Soldier’s Tale* RLPO: Psycho

P22 P7 P15 P32 P32 P6 P34 P28 P15 P28 P15 P7 P15 P15 P28 P6 P7 P7 P7 P29 P32 P16 P23 P29 P20 P8 P29 P34

Wed Wed Thu Fri Fri Sat Sat Sun Sun Sun Mon Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Fri Sat Sun Sun Mon Tue Wed Wed

16 16 17 18 18 19 19 20 20 20 21 21 22 23 24 25 25 26 27 27 28 29 30 30

7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 2.30pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm

Film: I Daniel Blake Close Enough for Jazz Big band* RLPO: Benedetti’s Brahms Dr. Hook Starring Dennis Locorriere Eliza Carthy and the Wayward Band* Raymond Gubbay Simply Gershwin Kristin Hersch* RLPO: Benedetti’s Brahms Sean Lock: Keep It Light Michael Chapman* Sean Lock: Keep It Light Klezmer-ish* EXTRA DATE Dar Williams* Ehnes Quartet** RLPO: Elgar’s Cello Concerto The Stylistics plus support Seafoam Green: The Last Waltz* Maximum Rhythm and Blues Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Sheelanagig* The John Wilson Orchestra Katie Melua The Saw Doctors The West African Blues Project*

P34 P17 P30 P9 P17 P20 P17 P30 P33 P18 P33 P17 P18 P30 P30 P9 P18 P9 P31 P18 P21 P9 P10 P18

December 2016 Thu Thu Fri Fri Sat Sat Sun Mon Mon Tue

1 1 2 2 3 3 4 5 5 6

11am 7.30pm 2.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 12pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

Liverpool Philharmonic Experience* RLPO: New World RLPO: New World An Evening with Sir Michael Parkinson Amadou & Mariam Emily Portman and the Coracle Band* The Bootleg Beatles in Concert Lunchtime Learning Big Girls Don’t Cry Seth Lakeman

P23 P31 P31 P33 P10 P19 P10 P22 P21 P10

Fri Fri Fri Sat Sat Sun Sun Mon Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sat Sat Sun Sun Sun Mon Mon Tue Wed Thu Thu Fri Sat Sat Tue Wed Tue Sat

9 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 14 15 16 17 17 17 18 18 18 19 19 20 21 22 22 23 24 24 27 28 27 31

7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 2.30pm 8pm 1pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 11.30am 2.30pm 7.30pm 11.30am 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 11am 2pm 7.30pm 7pm 7pm 7.30pm

Roy Wood plus support The Vals Red Priest: Winter Baroque Carnival** Dick Gaughan* RLPO: Big Band Wonderland Connie Lush* Liverpool Welsh Choral Laughterhouse Live Lunchtime Concert All Cellos* Katherine Jenkins: Celebration RLPO: Big Band Wonderland The Human League SOLD OUT Belshazzar’s Feast* Andy McKee* Family Concert: Sing-along with Santa Family Concert: Sing-along with Santa RLPO: Spirit of Christmas Family Concert: Sing-along with Santa Family Concert: Sing-along with Santa RLPO: Spirit of Christmas Carols by Candlelight Close Up Ksenija Sidorova, accordion* RLPO: Spirit of Christmas Christmas with The Overtones Family Concert: Sing-along with Santa RLPO: Spirit of Christmas RLPO: Spirit of Christmas Film: It’s A Wonderful Life Film: It’s A Wonderful Life The Sound of Musicals Ken Dodd Ken Dodd RLPO: Bring in the New Year

January 2017 Sun Thu

1 26

2.30pm Raymond Gubbay New Year’s Day Prom P31 11am Liverpool Philharmonic Experience P23

complete your evening Just across the road, we’re a perfect partner to your evening at Liverpool Philharmonic. Ɖƌŝdž ĮdžĞ ŵĞŶƵ ƚǁŽ ĐŽƵƌƐĞƐ άϭϵ͘ϱϬ ͬ ƉŽƐƚ ĐŽŶĐĞƌƚ ŶŝŐŚƚĐĂƉƐ ͬ ďĞĚƌŽŽŵƐ ĨƌŽŵ άϵϬ

November 2016 Tue Tue Wed Wed Wed Thu Fri Fri Sat Sat Sun Tue Wed Wed Thu Thu Fri Fri Sat Mon Tue Tue

1 1 2 2 2 3 4 4 5 5 6 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 14 15 15

7.30pm 7.30pm 12.45pm 8pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 2.30pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 11am 7.30pm 2.30pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

The Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll Show Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio** Lunchtime Learning* Stewart Lee: Digital Content Provider Maz O’Connor* RLPO: Dvorák Symphony No.7 Rebecca Ferguson Genesis Visible Touch* Ross Noble: Brain Dump Steve Forbert* Family Concert: Intergalactic Journey Van Morrison Van Morrison Pierre Bensusan* Liverpool Philharmonic Experience RLPO: L’après-midi RLPO: L’après-midi Chris Wood* The Real Thing Klezmer-ish* SOLD OUT David Essex Steve Gunn*

P8 P29 P22 P33 P16 P29 P8 P16 P33 P16 P20 P8 P8 P16 P23 P29 P29 P16 P8 P17 P9 P17

Hotel of the Year, Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards 2015 VisitEngland Silver Award for Excellence 2014

t: 0151 709 3000 | e: sleep@hopestreethotel.co.uk web: www.hopestreethotel.co.uk

P10 P24 P19 P24 P19 P24 P33 P31 P11 P24 P11 P24 P19 P21 P21 P25 P21 P21 P25 P25 P31 P25 P11 P21 P25 P25 P25 P25 P21 P33 P33 P25

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t: 0151 705 2222 | e: eat@hopestreethotel.co.uk web: www.thelondoncarriageworks.co.uk

PH L R IL IVE OY H R A OF AR PO L FE M OL R ON IC

Whats on Guide_August-December 2016.qxp_Layout 1 22/07/2016 10:02 Page 38

ENJOY A COMPLIMENTARY KIR ROYALE FOR YOU AND YOUR GUESTS To redeem, present this offer when dining

TWO COURSES £10,95 THREE COURSES £12,95 MONDAY TO FRIDAY 12 - 7pm Pop in to pay us a visit.... you will be surprised.

The best place to meet, do business and socialise in the City Centre.

20% off all evening on Food & Beverage (served from 5pm ʹ 10pm daily) , just quote ͞tŚĂƚ͛Ɛ KŶ 'ƵŝĚĞ͟ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ƐĞƌǀĞƌ͘ Offer available lunchtime and evenings, recommended to book in advance. Subject to availability and terms & conditions.

“Robust French flavours and brilliant value for money” GOOD FOOD GUIDE

Offer valid until 31st December 2016.

Holiday Inn Liverpool City Centre, Lime Street, Liverpool, L1 1NQ Tel: +44 (0)151 709 7090 | Fax: +44 (0)151 709 0137 | Web: www.HILiverpool.com

51 PARADISE STREET, LIVERPOOL L1 3EU 0151 709 8487 | liverpool@cote-restaurants.co.uk www.cote-restaurants.co.uk Offer valid until 31/12/16 at Côte Liverpool only. One complimentary glass of Kir Royale per person aged 18 years and over ordering a main course.

Whats on Guide_August-December 2016.qxp_Layout 1 22/07/2016 10:02 Page 40