This is a sponsored article on behalf of The Little Orchestra.
Curious about classical music? After a night out like no other? Then you need to know about The Little Orchestra.
These guys do classical concerts differently, swapping stuffy concert halls for unique and intimate venues; cramped stalls for soft, pillowy double sofas and comfy chairs; and an atmosphere of hushed reverence for fun, informal vibes (don't be surprised if you bump into the conductor at the bar after the show!).
For their next gig, The Little Orchestra are headed to the Royal Horticultural Halls — a gorgeous, glass-vaulted, Grade II listed venue in Westminster. Inside Lindley Hall, which has welcomed countless royals and celebrities over its 100+ year history, they're treating ticket-holders to Beethoven's Ninth Symphony.
Widely considered to be the maestro's magnum opus, if you're new to Beethoven the Ninth Symphony is a brilliant place to start. On Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December, The Little Orchestra invite you to into the world of the one of history's greatest composers, with Conductor and Artistic Director Nicholas Little revealing the stories and inspiration behind the music along the way.
Doors open at 6.30pm, so you've got plenty of time to unwind with a drink and a bite to eat before the show begins at 8pm. The Little Orchestra's tavern serves wonderfully warming grub — including veggie, vegan, and gluten free options — and Mix & Match cocktail company provide a well-stocked bar, featuring bespoke drinks inspired by Beethoven's Ode to Joy (that's the really famous bit at the climax of the 9th symphony — you've almost definitely heard it at some point).
What's more, the first round is on The Little Orchestra — Londonist readers get a free cocktail along with their ticket. Just enter the code 'Elysium' at checkout to claim yours.
In a nutshell, The Little Orchestra incorporates all the key ingredients (and then some) of an incredible classical concert — absurdly talented musicians, high drama, an atmospheric setting — into their performances, but none of the elitism.
Experience it for yourself this December.
Beethoven's Ninth from The Little Orchestra. Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December, 6.30pm-11.45pm, at the Royal Horticultural Halls (Westminster). Tickets start at £30 and can be bought here. Don't forget to enter the code 'Elysium' at checkout to claim your free cocktail!
