This event is available to Young Musician’s Pass members. Booking opens at 12noon on 19 May and closes 5pm on 30 June. Tickets are likely to sell fast so don't wait.

The outstanding young American instrumentalists of NYO2, led by Venezuelan conductor Rafael Payare, present a thrilling pairing of Shostakovich and Prokofiev.

American cellist Alisa Weilerstein – hailed by The Telegraph as ‘truly a phenomenon’ – takes on Shostakovich’s fiendishly demanding First Cello Concerto. Written in 1959 for the composer’s friend, Mstislav Rostropovich, it brims with raw emotion, biting irony, and an undercurrent of hope.

Prokofiev's Fifth Symphony was written during the Second World War and pulses with militaristic energy. Its 1945 premiere was momentarily held up by artillery fire outside the concert hall, celebrating Russia’s advance into Nazi Germany. Despite its wartime origins, optimism prevails. ‘I wanted to sing the praises of the free and happy human being,’ Prokofiev declared.

As part of their International Festival Residency, NYO2 brings together talented 14-17-year-old musicians from a wide range of backgrounds, offering fresh energy and new perspectives on orchestral music. 

What to expect at Usher Hall

Usher Hall is home to our series of world-class orchestras, soloists and operas in concert.

Sit back in the beautiful auditorium, turn off your phone and let the sounds of the symphony wash over you.

Supported by Dunard Fund