Pairings & Odd Couples - Newcastle

Pairings and Odd Couples is a bold exploration of musical contrasts, curated by Guest Director Huw Belling. This eclectic program brings together works from different countries and eras, placing composers in fascinating dialogue. Estonian chant meets Irish modernism, while the premiere of Belling’s Pru Vir offers a fresh response to Guerrero’s Prudentes Virgines.

The program also delves into the timeless versatility of J.S. Bach, highlighting his enduring influence. Spanning centuries, Pairings and Odd Couples ranges from early chant to contemporary compositions by living composers such as Finsterer and Pärt, creating a transcontinental conversation through time. These intriguing juxtapositions reveal the unexpected connections between seemingly disparate musical worlds, offering a compelling reflection on how music bridges cultures and eras.