River conducted the Sheffield Youth Orchestra and the Sheffield Symphony Orchestra in a joint concert as part of Classical Sheffield Weekend 2023. The programme included Jessel’s The Parade of the Tin Soldiers, Gounod’s Funeral March of a Marionette, and Beethoven’s Symphony No.7 Movement 2.

The Sheffield Symphony Orchestra is a large orchestra of experienced, skilled players and music professionals. It offers adventurous programmes for the larger orchestra. Their aim is to inspire a whole new generation of young music lovers and musicians and to break down barriers between classical musicians and their audiences.

Sheffield Youth Orchestra is South Yorkshire’s longest-running independent youth orchestra. Since 1964 they have led the way in developing young musicians through outstanding training and performance opportunities across the Steel City.

In this concert, in the spirit of collaboration, the two orchestras joined together to showcase some of the music from their individual repertoires.