Geoffrey Mogridge was in the audience at Ilkley Philharmonic Orchestra’s concert at All Saints' Church on Sunday 8th June.
The house full signs were very nearly needed for the Ilkley Philharmonic Orchestra’s delectable programme of Schumann, Mozart and Beethoven. Though none of the works played are likely to enter Classic FM’s Hall of Fame. John Anderson and his new Ilkley orchestras deserve immense credit for their exploration of the highways and byways of the classical symphonic and concerto repertoire.
Schumann’s Overture, Scherzo and Finale all too rarely features in the concert programmes of our major orchestras - amateur or professional. The twenty-minute long work is a symphony in all but name and was originally intended as Schumann’s 2nd. The composer made some revisions and the Overture, Scherzo & Finale became popular with audiences after his death. John Anderson and the Ilkley Philharmonic clearly relished Schumann’s fine writing for all sections especially the woodwind and brass in their driven performance of this engaging work.
Mozart composed his Oboe Concerto in C K314 in the Summer of 1777. Months later he reworked it as the Flute Concerto No 1 in D. This delightful piece remains in the repertory in both forms. So step forward Tracey Smurthwaite, principal flute of the Ilkley Philharmonic. Tracey played with fluidity and beautifully shaped phrases. Her tangible sense of enjoyment touched the audience. Polished playing from all sections was carefully balanced so as not to subsume the solo instrument.
Following interval refreshments which are free at these concerts, though donations are welcomed, it was Beethoven all the way. And what a rare treat to hear a Beethoven symphony that isn’t the 5th, 6th or 7th played live! John Anderson and the Ilkley Philharmonic’s energised performance of the joyful Symphony No 2 in D major filled this ancient church with light and colour.
Great to see several families with young kids among the audience. Sparking an interest in live classical music in their early years is so important.
Review by Geoffrey Mogridge
Ilkley Pre-School faces closure without urgent financial lifeline
MP shares update on redevelopment of Airedale Hospital
Age UK shop is Ilkley appeals for donations as stocks are low
Fuggle & Golding saved by Horsforth Brewery
Joanna seeks life-extending treatment after brain tumour diagnosis
Winners revealed for Ilkley Business Awards 2026
Airedale Hospital charity hits the road for its fifth annual World Book Day adventure
Yorkshire Water, what is happening behind all those blue hoardings?
Ilkley Cemetery's Beanlands Parade gates repairs
Local MP backs campaign to protect affordable residential experiences for young people
Claire Baxter Gallery announces closure in Ilkley
Ilkley's Annual Town Meeting and Citizen Awards 2026
Outside the Box and Ilkley Live make music together
New drone will be used 'wherever it is needed' to stop fly tipping
Calendar of events announced at Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust AGM
Experience the magic of opera at charity gala in Ilkley
Your Local Experiences earns thousands for local businesses in first month
Four Ilkley businesses in finals of Leeds Oliver Awards 2026
Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary involved with eradicating Polio worldwide
International Women’s Day talk to celebrate ‘Brilliant Bradford Lasses’
