Sample Programmes
This curated selection showcases the range and artistic flexibility of Chamber Principals of London. Each programme serves a unique purpose—designed for a variety of venues, from formal concert halls to intimate spaces. These programmes can be adapted as needed and serve as tasters of the ensemble's musical scope.
Lunchtime Series
Operatic Miniatures & Italianate Charm
Graceful, witty, and full of theatrical flair—ideal for midday audiences.
Rossini: String Sonata No. 2 in A major
Rolla: Duo for Violin and Viola on Rossini's "La Donna del Lago"
Paganini: Duo for Violin and Cello
Glinka: Divertimento Brillante on Bellini's "La Sonnambula" (for Piano and String Quintet)
Perfect for daytime or relaxed settings, this programme blends melodic sparkle and virtuosic brilliance. Drawing on 19th-century opera and salon traditions, it brings together lightness, lyricism, and playful elegance—offering a colourful, audience-friendly experience in a compact format.
Full-Length Evening Programme
Romantic Powerhouse
Expansive, emotional, and richly textured—ideal for feature concerts.
Richard Strauss: Capriccio Sextet, Op. 85
W.A. Mozart: String Quintet No. 4 in G minor, K. 516
P.I. Tchaikovsky: Souvenir de Florence, String Sextet, Op. 70
This sweeping programme journeys from the lush introspection of Strauss to the dark-hued drama of Mozart, before exploding into the passion and vitality of Tchaikovsky's string sextet. Ideal for evening concerts or festival feature slots.
With Piano
Between Elegance & Edge
A vivid contrast of eras and expression, unified by the piano.
Alfred Schnittke: String Trio
W.A. Mozart: Piano Quartet in E-flat major No. 2, K. 493
Dmitri Shostakovich: Piano Quintet in G minor, Op. 57
Opening with Schnittke's fractured, postmodern trio, this programme offers striking emotional range. Mozart's quartet provides balance and poise, before the intensity and introspection of Shostakovich's quintet closes the evening—bridging private introspection with public power.
String Fantasy Programme
An imaginative journey through 20th-century lyricism, Impressionist colour, and Romantic exuberance.
Imogen Holst: Phantasy Quartet
Maurice Ravel: String Quartet in F
Ralph Vaughan Williams: Phantasy Quintet
Felix Mendelssohn: String Octet in E-flat major
This inventive programme explores fantasy and freedom in chamber music—from Holst's and Vaughan Williams' atmospheric British phantasies to Ravel's impressionistic textures, before arriving at Mendelssohn's radiant Octet as a celebratory close.
Duos & Trio
Unfiltered Voices
Focused textures and close dialogue—perfect for intimate acoustics or informal settings.
Mozart: Duo for Violin and Viola
Schulhoff: Duo for Violin and Cello
Beethoven: Duo for Viola and Cello "...mit zwei obligaten Augengläsern"
Beethoven: String Trio in G major, Op. 9 No. 1
This compact programme shines a light on chamber music in its most transparent form. Each pairing brings out new shades of tone, character, and interaction, creating an experience that feels both immediate and personal—ideal for close listening environments.
With Woodwinds & Brass
Expanded Ensemble
Elegant and orchestral—ideal for a broader sound world.
Mozart: Divertimento for String Trio, K. 563
Beethoven: Septet in E-flat major, Op. 20
These landmark works showcase the charm and scale of classical mixed instrumentation. Mozart's refined late divertimento gives every player a voice, whilst Beethoven's beloved Septet provides warmth, humour, and grandeur in equal measure—highlighting the full spectrum of chamber colour.
