Electrifying Ealing

The Ealing Symphony Orchestra (ESO) is raising funds for the commission of a brand-new composition for electric violin and orchestra, which will receive its world premiere at our concert in St Barnabas Church, Ealing, on 10 May 2025. We believe this exciting new work will broaden the ESO’s appeal to new audiences who might not otherwise consider attending a classical music concert, as well as strengthening the ESO’s reputation for bold and innovative programming.

This project is a collaboration with Spanish composer Angela Luq, and Latvian violinist, Roberts Balanas. It will combine the classical world of symphonic music with influences of pop and electronic music. There are very few major works that exist for electric violin, and we are thrilled to be involved in developing the repertoire for an instrument which is growing in popularity.

A musician of eclectic artistry, Roberts Balanas enjoys a wide range of musical interests and aims to tear down the boundaries between different genres of music. Combining his background in classical music with the sound worlds of pop, rock and funk, his solo violin arrangements have amassed millions of views across the web. He performs on a 6-string electric violin in combination with effects and loop pedals.

Angela Luq earnt a master’s degree in composition from the Royal College of Music and her compositions have been premiered at renowned venues in Stockholm, London, Barcelona, and the Baltic States. In 2019 she was commissioned by the Royal Academy of Arts to compose a piece which was performed multiple times in the museum, including at a private event in the presence of Queen Camilla. Angela has been experimenting with blending electronic sounds and acoustic instruments in recent years and has previously collaborated with Roberts.

Established in 1922, the ESO has come to be seen as a leading nonprofessional orchestra on the London music scene, building a reputation for performing unusual and innovative works alongside more classical repertoire. Music director and conductor, John Gibbons, works with the trustees to plan ambitious programming for each season.

We hope you will consider lending your financial support to this exciting initiative.