John Suchet teams up with Sinfonia Viva to explore Beethoven in Derby

Suchet is joining us for a performance entitled Sinfonia Viva Introduces… Beethoven at Derby Cathedral at 7pm on Wednesday 19th November 2025.

The concert features three landmark pieces of music by Beethoven, including his First Symphony, which demonstrates much about what became unique about his music – including the innovations that distinguished his work from composers who came before.

After a short interval, John Suchet will be exploring the works performed in the first half of the concert within the context of Beethoven’s life. He has written eight books on Beethoven, including Beethoven – The Man Revealed and most recently, In Search of Beethoven: A Personal Journey. Before focusing on classical music, he was one of the country’s most popular television reporters and newsreaders, reporting from major events such as the Iranian Revolution and presenting ITN’s News at Ten.

He says,

“I’m delighted to be spending an evening in Derby Cathedral with Sinfonia Viva with a concert of three glorious pieces by Beethoven. I’ll be explaining exactly what was going on in his life when he wrote them. When you hear what I’ve got to say, you might be surprised that he was able to compose a single note, let alone three pieces. His life was entering a truly tumultuous stage.”

The concert is conducted by Karen Ní Bhroin and features Sinfonia Viva leader Sophie Rosa as soloist for Beethoven’s Romance for Violin & Orchestra No.1. During the performance, both conductor and musicians will give special insight into what it is like to play Beethoven, making this concert a unique and accessible way to explore classical music.

Sinfonia Viva Introduces… Beethoven is at 7pm on Wednesday 19th November at Derby Cathedral. Tickets are from £10 to £25, with £5 concessions and £5 tickets for students and anyone under 18 years of age. Tickets can be booked via Ticketsource or by calling Ticketsource on 0333 666 3366.