A MASTERPIECE of symphonic music and a soprano soloist both feature in the final concert of the Scarborough Symphony Orchestra season on Saturday, July 15.

Yorkshire-based Gaynor Morgan will be performing the Berlioz cantata “Herminie”, little heard on the public stage but familiar to many for its first movement theme later used by the composer in his much-loved “Symphonie Fantastique”.

Gaynor said she was looking forward to her first appearance with the Scarborough orchestra.

“It’s great to work with conductor Shaun Matthew and these talented players and in front of what I know is such an enthusiastic audience,” she added.

The concert opens with a wonderful work by the Czech composer, Smetana - his symphonic poem “Richard III” depicting his life, victories and the foretelling of his doom.

The evening, and season, ends with Brahms's monumental Symphony No.1. It took him more than 14 years to complete, written under the public expectation that he would follow in the footsteps of his predecessor Beethoven. It is sometimes referred to as “Beethoven’s Tenth” and some of the themes pay tribute to him.

The orchestra’s annual programme of well-known favourites and lesser-played hidden gems is proving a real success for players and concert-goers alike, with audiences now regularly reaching up to 300. There is also a growing number of young enthusiasts with admission free for all students,

“You really don’t have to be an expert to enjoy our concerts and I really urge everyone –young and old – to experience the thrill of live classical music at our wonderful venue here in Scarborough,” said conductor and musical director Shaun Matthew.

The concert is on Saturday, July 15 at 7.15pm at the Queen Street Methodist Hall in Scarborough. Admission is £11 (£9.50 for concessions). Entry for children up to 16 and full-time students is free. Tickets can be purchased direct from Revolutions Music in Huntriss Row Scarborough, or The Art Cafe in Whitby, as well as through the orchestra’s website, (www.scarborough-orchestra.co.uk) or at the door on the night.