Contemporary French and British art and music combine.

Tonight's music is inspired by Ikon Gallery's exhibition FRIENDS IN LOVE AND WAR, which presents works by over twenty artists from the British Council Collection and macLYON that explore the theme of friendship through France and Britain.

The concert includes pieces by French and British composers, and we are delighted to welcome Héloïse Werner, a French-born, London-based composer and soprano, to perform a world premiere of her piece, "siren suite". Werner's piece portrays five magical siren-like characters (the soprano) as they each control and manipulate the sea (the orchestra) in strange and powerful ways. It is heard here alongside Debussy's La Mer ("The Sea").

The programme also features Satie’s collaboration with René Clair and includes the surrealistic film, Entr’acte. Satie was a good friend of Debussy and had an influence on his music, creating another layer of connection between tonight’s works.

We’re hugely grateful for the generous support provided by Dunard Fund towards our CBSO Explores series.