Upcoming concerts

Performance

Join the Canterbury Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of music, under the baton of Joe Davies, an up-and-coming, supremely talented conductor already making waves across the UK. With his dynamic energy and insightful musical leadership, Davies brings fresh intensity and clarity to every performance.

This concert features the biting brilliance of Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9, bursting with character and satire, and the sweeping emotional power of Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto, brought to life by the outstanding soloist Jessica Meakin.

Jessica Meakin is recognised as a dynamic, versatile, and sought-after young artist. Her rich experience spans orchestral, chamber, session, and musical theatre work, and she brings exceptional poise, expressive depth, and captivating musicality to every performance. Her interpretation of Barber’s hauntingly beautiful concerto promises to be a true highlight of the evening.

More than just a performance, this is a celebration of the remarkable musical talent flourishing here in Canterbury. The CSO is your local orchestra – professional, passionate, and performing at an exceptional standard.

🎻 Support local talent. Experience outstanding music. Let Joe Davies, Jessica Meakin, and the CSO take you on a powerful musical journey.
Book your tickets now – and don’t miss this inspiring night of music.

Soloist  Jessica Meakin Violin

Joe Davies  Conductor

Floriane Peycelon  Leader

Programme

Elizabeth Winters  The Serious Side of Madness

Samuel Barber   Violin Concerto

Interval

Dmitri Shostakovich  Symphony no. 9

Performance

Performance

The Canterbury Symphony Orchestra rounds off its season with a spectacular performance of Holst’s The Planets — one of the most iconic and exhilarating works in the orchestral repertoire. From the relentless power of Mars to the ethereal mystery of Neptune, Holst’s vivid score takes audiences on a cosmic journey full of colour, drama and wonder. A hidden choir adds to the haunting atmosphere of the final movement, creating an unforgettable conclusion.

This thrilling programme also features complementary works to be announced, highlighting the full force and finesse of the CSO under the direction of Music Director Joe Davies, with Leader Flo Peycelon.

Join us for a powerful end to the season, with music that captures the imagination and stirs the soul. Whether you're a seasoned concertgoer or new to orchestral music, this is a night not to be missed.

Tickets will be available via the Gulbenkian box office. Student group discounts available.

Performance

Freddy Kempf with the Canterbury Symphony Orchestra

Internationally renowned pianist, Freddy Kempf will join the CSO for an unforgettable evening with the Canterbury Symphony Orchestra. One of the most dynamic and passionate pianists of his generation, Kempf will dazzle audiences with Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2, a masterpiece of sweeping lyricism, rich emotion, and virtuosic brilliance.

Following this, the orchestra takes centre stage with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5—a powerful and emotionally charged work exploring fate, resilience, and triumph. From the haunting opening theme to the exhilarating finale, this symphony remains one of the great pillars of the Romantic repertoire.

Join CSO in the stunning surroundings of Canterbury for an evening of world-class music making. A highlight of the musical calendar, this concert promises drama, beauty, and unforgettable artistry. Early booking is strongly recommended.

An evening not to be missed.

Performance

Experience the depth and splendour of English music in an all-Elgar evening featuring internationally acclaimed cellist Raphael Wallfisch and the Canterbury Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Music Director Joe Davies. The concert opens with Elgar’s poignant Cello Concerto in E minor, a deeply personal and lyrical masterpiece brought to life by Wallfisch’s exceptional artistry.

In the second half, the orchestra performs Elgar’s Symphony No. 1, a majestic and emotionally rich work, celebrated for its nobility, tenderness, and sweeping grandeur. Since its triumphant 1908 premiere, it has stood as one of the great symphonies of the 20th century.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear two of Elgar’s finest works in one unforgettable evening — a celebration of English romanticism performed with passion and finesse.