Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra has brought Roderick Williams’ year long residency to a close this week.
The acclaimed baritone performed his final concert with the orchestra at Lighthouse in Poole, joining Bournemouth Symphony Chorus and guest soloists for BSO: Lost In Innocence under chief conductor Mark Wigglesworth.
The programme included Aaron Copland’s Appalachian Spring and Sir Michael Tippett’s wartime oratorio A Child of Our Time, with audiences also recently attending his recital An English Song Winterreise alongside pianist Christopher Glynn at Lighthouse.
The recital reimagines Schubert’s Winterreise song cycle using music by British composers and remains available online until 30 May following its Poole performance earlier this season.
Alongside concerts, Williams also joined BSO Participate events during his residency, including workshops and assemblies with pupils at Longfleet CE Primary School in Poole alongside pianist Simon Gilliver and music leader Hazel Gould.
Music teacher Kate Wright said pupils were “spellbound by his beautiful voice” and described the visit as an experience that inspired young singers and instrumentalists across the school.
Williams also performed as part of the orchestra’s regular work with Southampton Hospitals Charity, playing for staff, visitors and patients during his time with the BSO.
BSO chief executive Dougie Scarfe said the orchestra would “treasure the memory of his time here” and praised his work with musicians and the wider community.
The orchestra has also announced highlights of its 2026 and 2027 season, including a new Beethoven series and the arrival of pianist Boris Giltburg as the next Artist in Residence.
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