Antarctica: Vaughan Williams and Arvo Pärt

If you are looking for something a bit different to do on a Sunday afternoon this winter, the Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra has a concert coming up at the Brighton Dome on December 6, 2026. The programme, titled Antarctica: Vaughan Williams and Arvo Pärt, focuses on a mix of classical and contemporary pieces. The performance starts at 14:45, though the doors open a bit earlier at 14:00 if you want to get settled in.

The musical selection is quite varied. They are performing Vaughan Williams' Sinfonia antartica (Symphony No. 7), alongside Arvo Pärt’s La Sindone, Sibelius’ The Swan of Tuonela, and Jonny Greenwood’s Water. It is a collaborative effort, featuring soprano Elizabeth Watts, the artist Bishi on tanpura, and filmmaker Kathy Hinde, who will be providing live visuals. The Brighton Festival Chorus’s female voices will also be joining the orchestra, all under the direction of Joanna MacGregor.

Regarding the logistics, tickets are priced between £15 and £41. There are a few ways to manage the cost depending on your situation: the orchestra offers a 'Concert Saver' discount if you book three or more concerts, and a 'Season Saver' if you book seven. They also have tickets starting at £10 for anyone under 30, £1 tickets for children, and a 50% discount available for those on lower incomes.

If you find yourself wanting a bit more context before the main event, there is a separate session called 'The Listening Club' happening a few days prior. It is an illustrated talk led by Joanna MacGregor, scheduled for Thursday, December 3, 2026, at the Brighton Unitarian Church. It lasts about an hour and might be a good way to get a better sense of the music before hearing it performed live at the Dome.