In a Summer Garden – Delius in France

The Delius Society hosts a free lunchtime recital performed by the Frith Rolfe Piano Duo, Ben Frith and Heidi Rolfe. “Roses, lilies, and one thousand scented flowers….” is part of an inscription from composer Frederick Delius to his wife, Jelka Rosen, included in his score of ‘ In a Summer Garden’. This quote could easily describe today’s programme, with its transcriptions of Delius by Peter Warlock and delicious four hand pieces by leading French composers – with their abundance of sensual impressions. Delius’ life began here in Bradford, but it is not surprising that later years were spent in France, where his musical style seemed more akin. Turning his back on both atonality and previous classical structures, Delius embraced the impressionistic genre, creating his own inimitable musical world. The Frith Rolfe Piano Duo bring Delius back to his home town along with some kindred spirits! PROGRAMME Ravel: Mother Goose Suite Delius: On Hearing the First Cuckoo in Spring Chabrier: Romantic Waltz no.2 Delius: In a Summer Garden (arr. P. Heseltine) Bonis: 6 Valses-Caprice Op. 87