Sounds of Brazil: Adriano Adewale, Percussion and Petrushka

The Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO) is set to conclude its 2025/26 season with a concert titled Sounds of Brazil: Adriano Adewale, Percussion and Petrushka. This final event takes place on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Concert Hall in the Brighton Dome. The performance is scheduled for 6:00 PM, with doors opening at 5:15 PM.

The evening features Brazilian percussionist Adriano Adewale, who is noted for synthesizing his Brazilian and African musical roots, alongside conductor and pianist Joanna MacGregor. The BPO has described the program as a 'carnaval caleidoscópico' and a 'colorida, fantástica partitura' intended for 'oyentes de todas las edades'. The selection of works reflects this focus, opening with Britten’s educational The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra, followed by Mussorgsky’s dramatic Night on Bald Mountain, a piece famous for its inclusion in Disney’s Fantasia.

The centerpiece of the concert is a world premiere: MacGregor’s own Concerto for Brazilian Percussion and Piano, which she wrote specifically for Adewale. The program then concludes with Stravinsky’s vibrant Scenes from Petrushka (the 1947 version), which narrates the story of the beloved, lovestruck puppet Petrushka set against the backdrop of the Shrovetide Fair.

This concert is clearly designed to be accessible, particularly for families and younger listeners. Tickets start from £1.00, with standard prices ranging from £13 to £39. Specifically, children can attend for £1 (up to two per adult ticket), and those under 30 can secure tickets starting at £10. Additionally, a 50% discount is available for Low Income Concession holders, which applies to students and those receiving social benefits. If you are planning to attend multiple BPO events, you can save 20% by booking three concerts or 25% by booking the full season of seven concerts. It is worth noting that minors under 14 are not permitted entry unless accompanied by an adult.