Toward the Unknown Region – RVW150 at The Bridgewater Hall

Johnny James, Managing Editor

2022 marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Ralph Vaughan Williams – one of the greatest symphonists of the 20th century, and one of the best composers Britain has ever produced.

Under the banner of RVW 150 and coordinated by the Vaughan Williams Charitable Trust, a comprehensive programme of his works will be presented throughout the UK and internationally starting in spring 2022 and continuing through his birthday in October until the end of the season in 2023.

Playing their part in the celebrations, the BBC Philharmonic and the Hallé are joining forces to offer a unique Mancunian tribute to Ralph Vaughan Williams: a complete symphonic cycle during which we’ll hear all nine of his symphonies, along with other key works. These will be performed over the course of six concerts at The Bridgewater Hall and a chamber concert at Hallé St Peter’s, taking place from 26 February to 12 May 2022.

Here we explore the cycle, titled Toward The Unknown Region after a short piece by Vaughan Williams, guiding you through the wonderful music in store.