An unforgettable evening with the Elstree Mozart Players (EMP), conducted by Derek Holland, and featuring internationally renowned guest conductor Owain Arwel Hughes.
The concert dazzled with a rich and varied programme, from stirring orchestral works to operatic favourites.
A true highlight was the performance by international opera star Janice Watson, who captivated the audience with arias by Bach, Dvořák, Puccini and Delibes.
She was joined by Elizabeth Venner in the beloved Flower Duet from Lakmé and a charming Mozart duet from The Marriage of Figaro.
Dylan Lehner gave a virtuosic performance of Malcolm Arnold’s Trumpet Concerto, and Juliet Maclean shone in a moving cello solo from John Foulds’ Keltic Lament.
The orchestra’s versatility was on full display, from dramatic film scores (Aces High by Ron Goodwin) to lyrical miniatures like The Watermill and La Calinda.
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful audience – together, we raised £450 in support of Prostate Cancer UK and Breast Cancer Now, in association with the Rotary Club of The Studios of Elstree and Borehamwood.
A night of incredible music, international talent, and community spirit.
The highly anticipated Autumn Gala Concert 2025, presented by the Elstree Mozart Players in proud partnership with The Rotary Club of the Studios & Elstree and Borehamwood, promises an evening of musical splendour and community spirit.
Under Derek Holland’s baton with Lucy Cumming as concert leader, this gala showcases two distinguished conductors:
Derek Holland and guest conductor Owain Arwel Hughes CBE, renowned in the British classical music world.
The concert also presents an exceptional vocal appearance by soprano Janice Watson, joined in the celebrated Flower Duet with Elizabeth Venner.
Programme Highlights • The Land of the Mountain and the Flood – Hamish MacCunn • Trumpet Concerto – Malcolm Arnold (soloist Dylan Lehner) • Serenade for Orchestra – William Matthias • Prelude for Orchestra – Arwel Hughes • Arias with Janice Watson • Flower Duet – Bizet (Janice Watson & Elizabeth Venner) • Cello Concerto – Antonín Dvořák (soloist Edwin Gatward) • Aces High – Ron Goodwin
The programme balances stirring orchestral works with featured solo performances and vocal gems, capturing both tradition and dynamism.
Supporting a Cause This concert also supports two crucial charities: Breast Cancer NOW and Prostate Cancer UK, aligning cultural celebration with charitable giving.
A partnership between the Elstree Mozart Players and The Rotary Club of the Studios & Elstree and Borehamwood reflects the clubs’ long‑standing support for community arts initiatives
This Autumn Gala is perfectly timed for local audiences seeking exemplary orchestral music in an intimate, elegant setting. With distinguished artists, beloved repertoire and charitable purpose, it promises to be a memorable highlight of the autumn cultural calendar.
