06
Nov
Ripon Concerts stages first relaxed performance for audiences who find it hard to sit still
A Ripon concert society is holding its first relaxed performance for people who find traditional concerts challenging.
Ripon Concerts is staging the special 40-minute performance on Saturday (November 7), as part of a weekend of events featuring internationally acclaimed pianist Reina Okada.
The relaxed concert, which starts at 5pm at Holy Trinity Church, will see Ms Okada perform Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition alongside a screening of London City Ballet’s film performance of the work.
Jim Dalton, chair of Ripon Concerts, said it was believed to be the first time a film of a well-known ballet had been accompanied by live piano in the city.
He said:
It will be a relaxed, friendly performance of about 40 minutes for all children, adults with learning difficulties, dementia or sensory challenges; or anyone who finds it hard to stay quiet or still.
The music by Mussorgsky and the dancing are dramatic and appealing, for everyone to enjoy.
Music helps those with challenges but there aren’t many suitable live performances for them. That is why Ripon Concerts has arranged this concert.
Admission to Saturday’s performance is free, although visitors will be invited to make a donation.
The event is a new initiative for the concert society, which organises a monthly programme of performances during the 2026/27 season.
Ms Okada will return to Holy Trinity Church on Sunday for an afternoon recital featuring Beethoven’s Pathétique Sonata, Bach’s Prelude in B minor, Debussy’s Images, Book 1, and Scriabin’s Étude Op. 8 No. 12.
After the interval, she will once again accompany a screening of London City Ballet’s Pictures at an Exhibition with live piano.
Ripon Concerts has been working to attract more young people to its events, and Mr Dalton said attendances had doubled over the past two years.
The Ripon event is part of a busy weekend for classical music lovers. Harrogate professional orchestra Cuore Chamber Orchestra performs its season-opening concert at the Royal Hall in Harrogate tonight (November 6).
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