Rehearsals Begin for Great Classical Masterpieces 2026
There’s a particular buzz that comes with the first rehearsal of a major concert, and Sheffield Chamber Orchestra’s opening rehearsal for Great Classical Masterpieces was no exception. With music on stands, pencils at the ready, and plenty of smiles around the room, the orchestra gathered to begin work on a programme that conductor John Lyon describes, with infectious enthusiasm, as “really not to be missed”.
For many SCO players, this project also marks a welcome reunion. John Lyon returns to the podium to work with the orchestra once again, and the sense of excitement at renewing that musical partnership has been palpable from the very first downbeat. His energetic, clear-sighted approach in rehearsal immediately set the tone, drawing the players into the drama, lyricism and sheer scale of a programme built entirely from orchestral cornerstones.
A programme of symphonic ‘blockbusters’
Speaking ahead of the rehearsal period, John summed up the concert in characteristically vivid terms, saying “The program is a bit like Christmas Day in that it’s complete excess!”
The concert, taking place on Saturday 21 March 2026, brings together three works that hardly need introduction, yet never lose their power to thrill. Beethoven’s Egmont Overture opens the evening with its blend of tension, defiance and ultimate triumph. This is followed by one of the most beloved concertos in the violin repertoire, Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1, before the orchestra tackles the expansive warmth and sunshine of Brahms’s Symphony No. 2.
What makes the programme especially satisfying, as John points out, is not just the fame of each individual piece, but the way they speak to one another across generations: “It’s rare that you have an overture, and then a concerto, and then a symphony, all of which are complete Titan blockbusters. And also three composers where you can really see the interconnecting threads between them and how the musical styles develop.”
From Beethoven’s powerful symphonic legacy, through Brahms’s deep reverence for his predecessor, to Bruch finding his own voice alongside two giants of the repertoire, the evening offers a compelling musical journey.
Bruch, big shoes – and a concerto that endures
John is particularly keen to shine a light on Bruch’s position in the programme. Placed between Beethoven and Brahms, it’s a daunting context for any composer, yet Bruch’s First Violin Concerto more than holds its own. As John explains, “He’s putting up his violin concerto against the writers in the same concert of two of the other greatest violin concertos ever. And I’d say he does a pretty respectable job.”
The concerto’s enduring popularity is something of a double-edged sword for its composer, who wrote many other fine works, including further violin concertos and the Scottish Fantasy. But it is this piece – passionate, lyrical and instantly recognisable – that has secured Bruch’s place in concert halls worldwide, and it remains a firm favourite with audiences.
Welcoming soloist Esme Greenwood
SCO is delighted to welcome Esme Greenwood as soloist for the Bruch concerto. A violinist of great musical insight and expressive range, Esme brings both technical assurance and a deep connection to the music she performs. John has already begun discussions with her ahead of the concert: “We’ve had some chats already. She’s going to be a fantastic soloist.”
The partnership between soloist, conductor and orchestra promises to be a highlight of the evening, and rehearsals will allow that collaboration to develop fully in the weeks leading up to the concert.
John Lyon - conductor, educator and arranger
John Lyon has strong roots in South Yorkshire’s musical life. Alongside his work with Sheffield Chamber Orchestra, he is Principal Conductor of Leeds Symphony Orchestra and is closely involved with music education across the region, including work with Sheffield City Council’s Music Hub. Known for his communicative style and ability to inspire musicians of all ages, John combines a deep knowledge of the repertoire with a clear passion for sharing music’s excitement and emotional impact.
As rehearsals for Great Classical Masterpieces get underway, that passion is already evident. With an orchestra eager to be working with him again, a soloist of exceptional calibre, and a programme overflowing with masterpieces, this promises to be a concert that fully lives up to its name.
Great Classical Masterworks takes place on at 7.30pm on Saturday 21 March 2026 Ecclesall Parish Church, Sheffield.