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Hallé Orchestra

From HitStory, the pop encyclopedia of School of Rock · Artist

The Hallé, or Hallé Orchestra, is an English symphony orchestra from Manchester. The pianist and conductor Charles Hallé put it together in May 1857 for the Manchester Art Treasures Exhibition. He then decided to continue the orchestra as a permanent organisation, and on 30 January 1858 it gave its first concert. Its first home was the Free Trade Hall. In 1861 the orchestra was in financial difficulties and gave only two concerts that year.

Music and breakthrough

In 1888 the German violinist Willy Hess became leader. Hans Richter was music director from 1899 to 1911, and in his time the orchestra gave the first performance of Edward Elgar's First Symphony. In 1943 the orchestra had shrunk to thirty players. Sir John Barbirolli, who led it until 1970, brought it back to national level. Kent Nagano was principal conductor from 1992 to 1999. In 1996 the orchestra moved to the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester, where it still plays.

Influence

The records of the 1950s and 1960s reveal the broad repertoire, from Mozart's Jupiter Symphony to Ravel's La Valse, Debussy's La Mer, Sibelius's Finlandia and songs by Mahler. The Hallé shows how a city orchestra outside London can build a musical life of its own.

Listening

Listening tip. Listen to Sibelius's Finlandia played by the Hallé and notice how the brass make the opening sound heavy and menacing. Hear how the strings later take over the broad, calm melody.

Discography

Studio albums

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