London Concertante, the acclaimed classical orchestra, is set to return to Manchester Cathedral for a new season of four candlelit performances spanning autumn and winter. The series will feature distinct programmes, from modern rock covers to classic opera and festive film soundtracks, performed by world-class musicians in the historic city venue.
Season opens with Radiohead Reimagined
The season begins on September 20, 2026, at 7.30pm with Radiohead Reimagined by Candlelight, an orchestral interpretation of music by the iconic British band Radiohead. Familiar hits will be transformed through cinematic string arrangements, offering audiences a fresh perspective on the band's repertoire.
Opera and Christmas film favourites
On October 25, 2026, at 7.30pm, A Night at the Opera by Candlelight will celebrate famous operatic arias and duets composed by masters such as Mozart, Puccini, and Rossini. As the festive season approaches, the ensemble will perform popular tracks from beloved Christmas films including Home Alone, Elf, and Love Actually on November 22, 2026, at 7.30pm.
Viennese spectacular concludes series
The series concludes on January 3, 2027, at 6pm with the Viennese Christmas Spectacular by Candlelight, showcasing romantic waltzes, orchestral favourites, and nostalgic holiday classics.
London Concertante performs more than 300 concerts across the country every year, specialising in accessible programmes in atmospheric settings. Seating for each show is unreserved within ticket bands, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early to soak up the atmosphere.
Chris Grist, Artistic Director of London Concertante, said: “Manchester Cathedral is an extraordinary space to perform in, and presenting four very different programmes there allows us to really explore the range of what London Concertante does best.” He continued: “These concerts invite audiences to experience familiar repertoire in new and unexpected ways, all within a beautiful candlelit setting.”
The performance schedule at Manchester Cathedral is as follows: Radiohead Reimagined by Candlelight on September 20, 2026, at 7.30pm; A Night at the Opera by Candlelight on October 25, 2026, at 7.30pm; Christmas at the Movies by Candlelight on November 22, 2026, at 7.30pm; and Viennese Christmas Spectacular by Candlelight on January 3, 2027, at 6pm.
