Tango Nuevo

The Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra is continuing its 2025/26 season with a chamber recital titled Tango Nuevo, scheduled for Wednesday, 15 April 2026, at Brighton College. This particular evening moves away from the full orchestral sound to focus on a trio consisting of piano, percussion, and cello. The programme is built around the works of Astor Piazzolla, Tom Jobim, Heitor Villa-Lobos, and Egberto Gismonti. It is a combination that highlights the rhythmic complexity of tango and the melodic traditions of Brazilian music, providing a different perspective on the classical genre within a more intimate setting.

The performers involved bring quite a bit of individual experience to the stage. Joanna MacGregor, who serves as the musical director and pianist, is joined by the Brazilian percussionist Adriano Adewale and the cellist Adrian Brendel. The interaction between these three instruments is central to the Tango Nuevo style, where the piano and cello often take on percussive roles alongside Adewale’s contributions. These chamber recitals have become a consistent part of the Brighton music scene, often attracting a crowd that ranges from regular season ticket holders to those specifically interested in contemporary South American compositions.

In terms of getting a seat, these smaller events at Brighton College are known to sell out. The Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra operates a membership scheme for £35 a year, which grants priority booking for these recitals—a useful detail considering the limited capacity compared to their larger venue dates. While general ticket prices for the season’s concerts often start at £13, there are also accessible options like £10 tickets for under-30s and £1 for children. It’s a straightforward way to spend a Wednesday evening for anyone in the city who appreciates the technical side of chamber music but wants the energy associated with Piazzolla and Jobim.