Soloist: Nina Kotova, cello

Dvořák Carnival Overture

Dvořák Cello Concerto in B minor

Dvořák Symphony No 9 in E minor, 'From the New World'

Appearing for the first time at the Corn Exchange are the Prague Symphony Orchestra, conducted by fellow Czech Petr Altrichter, well known in the UK as former Principal Conductor of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. Together they present a programme made up of three of the most popular works by their famous countryman, Antonín Dvořák.

Opening the programme is Dvořák's scintillating Carnival overture, which bubbles with energy and exuberance, except for a haunting cor anglais melody. Like much of his music, the overture abounds with dance rhythms and folk music influences from the composer's native Bohemia.

Dvořák Cello concerto is described in the Grove Dictionary of Music as 'the crowning item in that instrument's repertory, with its characteristic richness and eloquence'. It will be played by the carismatic Nina Kotova, praised by the Daily Telegraph as an 'exceptional cellist...an artist of proven technical prowess...and extroverted vigour'.

Dvořák ninth and perhaps best-known symphony was penned during the composer's years in America, hence the nickname 'From the New World'. Whether inspired by American or Bohemian folk themes, or both, the music is always utterly appealing - not least in the famous Largo where the cor anglais makes another prominent and soulful appearance.

PRE-CONCERT TALKS
Why not join music writer and critic James Day for fascinating and informative talks about the programme before each concert. Talk will take place at the Maple Suite, Crowne Plaza Hotel, 20 Downing Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DT at 6.00pm