The Cyprus Symphony Orchestra returns to Rialto Theatre on Thursday, having now the opportunity to welcome an increased number of audience members. Conducted by the renowned German maestro Wolfram Christ, Cyprus Symphony Orchestra will present a programme featuring music by romantic composers of Central Europe, bursting with emotion and drama.

Discovered in 1951, Antonín Dvořák’s Seven pieces for small orchestra, were composed back in 1867 to be performed during the interval of a drama production, as was the custom at the time at the Provisional Theatre in Prague. In them one soon discovers seven movements of gorgeous, surprising theatricality, as if written to accompany the play itself.

All 15 violin concertos by the German composer Louis Spohr show great originality, vigour and a distinct melodic elegance. CySO’s concertmaster Wolfgang Schroeder will interpret Spohr’s Violin concerto nο. 8. Subtitled ‘in modo di scena cantante’, this concerto stands out by assigning to the violin the role of an opera character, much in the way of a dramatic opera scene, including characteristic recitative and aria style sections. Full of optimism, bliss and exuberance, Antonín Dvořák’s Serenade for strings was written in 1875, during one of the happiest and most productive times of his life.

Spirit of Romanticism

Concert series by the Cyprus Symphony Orchestra. May 20, Rialto Theatre, Limassol. 8.30pm. €5,7,12. Tickets via rialto.interticket.com or theatre box offices. Tel: 7777-7745