Classical music with an eastern flavour is not the first thing many expect from a Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert, yet the programme for Eastern Odyssey on 28 October 2026 at Lighthouse Poole offers precisely that. This event presents a rare opportunity to hear a full symphony orchestra perform works inspired by the East, conducted by Charlotte Corderoy and featuring pianist Junyan Chen. Far from a mere recital, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert promises a journey across moods and cultures through music by Mozart, Saint-Saëns and Rimsky-Korsakov.
If you are considering an evening of concerts in Poole that combines orchestral virtuosity with imaginative storytelling, this Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert is a fitting choice. This guide explains what to expect from the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert Eastern Odyssey, practical details for attending at Lighthouse Poole, and background on the featured composers and pieces. Flexiestays offers convenient accommodation nearby, ideal for visitors coming from Bournemouth or further afield.
What the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Concert Eastern Odyssey Programme Includes
The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert opens with the overture to Mozart’s Don Giovanni, a piece that sets the tone with its dramatic contrasts and shifting moods. Mozart’s overture is renowned for capturing the opera’s spirit without relying on its most famous arias, making it a masterclass in musical storytelling. The overture lasts around 8 minutes and is a staple of classical concert repertoires worldwide.
Following this is Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No. 2, performed by soloist Junyan Chen. Composed in 1868, this concerto is notable for its youthful energy and contrasting themes, described by some as beginning with Bach’s influence and ending with Offenbach’s lightness. The work’s virtuosity demands a pianist of high calibre, and Chen’s reputation suggests a performance of both technical skill and expressive depth. The concerto typically runs about 25 minutes.
The evening concludes with Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade, a symphonic suite inspired by The Arabian Nights. Rimsky-Korsakov himself described the work as “separate, unconnected episodes and pictures,” each evoking vivid imagery through orchestration. The solo violin represents Scheherazade’s voice, weaving a recurring motif throughout the piece. At roughly 35 minutes, Scheherazade is a landmark of descriptive music and a favourite in the Romantic repertoire.
Together, these pieces form a programme lasting approximately 70 minutes, offering a rich exploration of eastern themes through Western classical music in this Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert.
Getting to Lighthouse Poole for the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Concert
Lighthouse Poole is situated on the town’s waterfront, just a five-minute walk from Poole Quay. It serves as a cultural hub for the area and is the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s home venue outside Bournemouth itself. For visitors arriving from Bournemouth, the journey by car or taxi takes around 20 minutes via the A35. Alternatively, regular train services run from Bournemouth station to Poole station, which is a 15-minute walk or short bus ride to Lighthouse Poole.
Parking at Lighthouse is limited, but there are several public car parks nearby, including the Poole Quay car park, charging around £3 for an evening stay. For those travelling by public transport, the local bus network connects Bournemouth and Poole frequently, with stops close to the venue. For more detailed travel information, consult National Rail for train times and BCP Council for bus routes and parking options.
The venue offers accessible facilities for patrons with mobility needs, and the auditorium provides excellent acoustics and sightlines, ensuring a quality experience for all attendees at this Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert.
About the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Founded in 1893, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is one of the UK’s oldest and most respected orchestras. It performs a wide repertoire, from classical mainstays to contemporary commissions, and is known for its commitment to community engagement and education across Dorset and beyond. The orchestra’s association with Lighthouse Poole strengthens its presence on the south coast, complementing its regular concerts at Bournemouth’s Pavilion Theatre and other venues.
Charlotte Corderoy, the conductor for Eastern Odyssey, is an emerging talent in the classical music scene, noted for her dynamic interpretations and collaborative approach. Pianist Junyan Chen has built a reputation for technical brilliance and expressive playing, making him a fitting soloist for Saint-Saëns’ demanding concerto.
The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert Eastern Odyssey is a highlight of the orchestra’s 2026 season, showcasing its versatility and commitment to innovative programming.
Exploring the Composers and Their Works in the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Concert
The programme’s three composers offer contrasting but complementary perspectives on eastern themes in classical music.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific composer of the Classical era. His Don Giovanni overture exemplifies his ability to convey drama and character within a concise orchestral piece. The opera itself, based on the legendary libertine Don Juan, is a cornerstone of the operatic canon.
Camille Saint-Saëns (1835–1921), a French Romantic composer, pianist and organist, wrote the Piano Concerto No. 2 early in his career. The concerto’s blend of Baroque influences and Romantic flair reflects Saint-Saëns’ versatility and virtuosity. It remains a popular concerto in concert halls worldwide.
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov (1844–1908), a Russian composer and master orchestrator, drew inspiration from folklore and exotic tales. His Scheherazade is a vivid musical retelling of The Arabian Nights, showcasing his skill in orchestration and thematic development. The piece is a staple of Romantic orchestral music and a highlight in the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert repertoire.
Tickets and Booking Information for the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Concert
Tickets for the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert Eastern Odyssey at Lighthouse Poole are available through the venue’s official website. Prices typically range from £20 to £45 depending on seating location. Early booking is advisable, as concerts by the BSO often sell out well in advance.
Lighthouse Poole provides up-to-date information on concert times, ticket availability and any COVID-19 related measures. For visitors planning to combine the concert with dining, the nearby Poole Quay area offers a variety of restaurants and pubs, including seafood options reflecting the harbour setting.
For those travelling from Bournemouth or staying longer in the area, Flexiestays offers serviced apartments such as Tower House and Cliff Heights on Bournemouth’s West Cliff, providing all-inclusive stays with fibre Wi-Fi and free parking.
Further Cultural Opportunities Nearby the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Concert Venue
While in Poole, visitors might explore other cultural offerings such as the Poole Rocks Marine Conservation Zone, a protected seabed area accessible by boat tours. For more events, the What’s On calendar lists upcoming concerts and festivals across Bournemouth and Poole.
For an extended stay, the Bournemouth to Poole Clifftop Walk offers scenic views along the coast, linking the two towns on foot.
| Aspect | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Date and Time | Wednesday 28 October 2026, evening | Check Lighthouse Poole for exact time |
| Venue | Lighthouse Poole, Poole Harbour | Accessible, near Poole Quay |
| Programme | Mozart: Don Giovanni Overture | Approx. 8 minutes |
| Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 2 | Approx. 25 minutes | |
| Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade | Approx. 35 minutes | |
| Conductor | Charlotte Corderoy | Emerging British conductor |
| Soloist | Junyan Chen, piano | Renowned concert pianist |
| Ticket Prices | £20 to £45 | Book via Lighthouse Poole website |
| Travel | Poole accessible by train, bus, car | Parking nearby approx. £3 evening rate |
For official information on the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, visit their website. For details on Lighthouse Poole and tickets, see the venue’s page. Local travel details can be found via National Rail and BCP Council.
This Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert offers a rare chance to enjoy classical music inspired by the East in a comfortable, accessible venue. Whether you are a seasoned concertgoer or new to orchestral music, Eastern Odyssey at Lighthouse Poole promises a memorable evening of artistry and imagination.
For questions or assistance with your visit, speak with our local team at Flexiestays.
Dates & times
- 28 October 2026