Chetham's School of Music

Sinfonia Cymru is a dynamic chamber orchestra formed of players in the early years of their professional careers, all aged under 30 and drawn from the best young musical talent across the UK. Alongside their immense talent, they bring unbridled commitment and enthusiasm to their playing – much to the delight of their enthusiastic audience members. Sinfonia Cymru is an orchestra in demand – 2018/19 performances included Tosca with Sir Bryn Terfel at the Abu Dhabi Festival, and the ensemble was chosen for both the opening concert of Sir Karl Jenkins’ 75th birthday tour and a tour of Wales with Sheku Kanneh-Mason.

Appearing with Sinfonia Cymru is the Scottish accordionist, James Crabb. For those of you who might think of the accordion as just a ‘squeeze box’, James is the man to change your mind. His playing combines technical virtuosity with the utmost musical sensitivity. James is well-used to playing in a chamber orchestra context, having formed a fruitful partnership with the Australian Chamber Orchestra since moving there a few years ago. The programme includes his own arrangements of Piazzolla repertoire, his speciality, alongside music by Vivaldi, Arvo Pärt and Finnish composer, Kalevi Aho.