Soup Concert with the cello section

With its wide range – from a dark, warm depth to an almost soprano-like singing upper register – the cello can express both intimacy and powerful drama. It is also often said to be the instrument closest to the human voice. In this Soup Concert, the cellists of the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra come together in a programme that explores the instrument’s full expressive range.

The concert opens with a new work by Josep Castanyer Alonso, written for the cello section of the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra, of which he is himself a member. A playful irony is heard in French composer Charlotte Sohy’s Sérénade ironique – a composer from the early 20th century who has, encouragingly, been brought back into the spotlight in recent years. Anders Hillborg has an unfailing sense for the potential of different instruments, including the cello, as demonstrated in his Cello Concerto from 2020. His ability to build slowly evolving sonorities into organic soundscapes is evident in his Music for 10 Cellos.

Melancholy and intensity are characteristic elements in the music of the Argentine composer and tango master Astor Piazzolla. We hear one of his most beloved works, Invierno porteño from Cuatro estaciones porteñas, in an arrangement by Mats Nilsson, formerly a double bassist with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. More solemn in character is the Russian cello virtuoso Karl Davydov’s Hymn for 10 Cellos, in which the instruments take on an almost choral quality.

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Menu: Spinach soup with Västerbotten crisp. Served with sourdough bread, crispbread, butter, mineral water/light beer, coffee/tea and a piece of chocolate. Wine and beer are available for purchase.

All soups are lactose- and gluten-free. Please inform us of any dietary requirements when booking.