A Debut That Takes Flight
The Fantasia Orchestra Smith Square Hall concert marks a beautiful new beginning this autumn. On Sunday 23 November 2025, the acclaimed ensemble will make its debut at the historic Westminster venue with Birdsong — a concert inspired by nature’s melodies and the timeless beauty of the human voice.
Conducted by Tom Fetherstonhaugh, the programme will feature the internationally celebrated Lucy Crowe OBE, whose radiant soprano brings warmth and power to each piece. The evening launches Fantasia’s four-performance residency at Smith Square Hall, opening a new chapter for this inventive British orchestra.
Nature, Voice and Musical Storytelling
In Birdsong, Fantasia traces the influence of birds and their song through centuries of music. From Handel’s doves and Haydn’s hens to Messiaen’s lovebirds, the concert offers an imaginative journey through sound and emotion.
The programme includes:
🎵 Vivaldi – Spring from The Four Seasons
🎵 Handel – As When the Dove Laments Her Love
🎵 Haydn – Symphony No. 83 “The Hen”
🎵 Berg – The Nightingale from Seven Early Songs
🎵 Gershwin – Little Jazz Bird
🎵 Kosma – Autumn Leaves
Arrangements by Harry Baker and James Ledger complete a rich blend of classical precision and modern rhythm.
A Star Soprano and an Inspired Orchestra
Lucy Crowe OBE, one of Britain’s most admired sopranos, joins Fantasia Orchestra for this special performance. Known for her expressive artistry and versatility, Crowe’s voice captures both the intimacy and grandeur of the concert’s nature-inspired theme.
Conductor Tom Fetherstonhaugh shared:
“Launching our residency at Smith Square Hall with Lucy Crowe feels incredibly special. Birds and their song have always inspired composers — this concert lets that inspiration take flight.”
Fantasia Orchestra’s Bold New Season
The Fantasia Orchestra Smith Square Hall debut also marks the opening of their 2025–26 season, featuring genre-crossing collaborations with artists including Jess Gillam MBE, Jasdeep Singh Degun, and Steven Osborne.
Following their BBC Proms debut in 2024, Fantasia has become one of the most exciting ensembles in the UK. Their performances are known for their fresh interpretations, imaginative curation, and youthful energy.
When and Where
📅 Date: Sunday 23 November 2025
🕖 Time: 7 PM
📍 Venue: Smith Square Hall, Westminster, London
🎫 Tickets: Buy via Fantasia Orchestra’s website (outbound link)
💷 Price Range: £20–£45 (Concessions available)
♿ Accessibility: Step-free access and accessible seating
For theatre lovers, you can also explore Christmas at Woolwich Works for more seasonal performances across South East London.
Book Your Seats
✨ Don’t miss Fantasia Orchestra Smith Square Hall this November — a spellbinding night of voice, strings, and songbirds.
🎟 Book tickets now and experience an evening where music takes flight.
About Fantasia Orchestra
Founded by Tom Fetherstonhaugh, Fantasia Orchestra brings together some of the UK’s most promising young musicians. Their mission is to make classical music accessible, imaginative, and full of joy.
Learn more and follow them on:
🌐 fantasiaorchestra.com
📸 Instagram @fantasiaorchestra
