Imperial Majesty at Portsmouth Guildhall – Walton, Beethoven & Tchaikovsky

Experience an evening of powerful orchestral music as Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra presents Imperial Majesty at Portsmouth Guildhall on Thursday 19th November 2026 at 7pm.

Conducted by Andrew Litton and featuring acclaimed pianist Jonathan Biss, the concert brings together music by Walton, Beethoven and Tchaikovsky.

Expect majestic themes, extraordinary piano playing and sweeping orchestral music. If you're searching for what’s on in Portsmouth this November, this is one for classical music fans.

At a Glance

What: Imperial Majesty
When: Thursday 19th November 2026
Time: 7pm
Where: Portsmouth Guildhall
Address: Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB
Orchestra: Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Conductor: Andrew Litton
Piano: Jonathan Biss
Programme: Walton, Beethoven and Tchaikovsky
Perfect for: Classical music lovers and anyone keen to experience a live orchestra

What Music Will Be Performed?

The evening begins with Walton’s Crown Imperial March, a work filled with grandeur and ceremony.

Combining Tudor-inspired choral grandeur with modern rhythmic energy, the piece features a stately main theme, lyrical passages and a triumphant finale.

It's followed by one of the most celebrated works in the piano repertoire, Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5, known as the ‘Emperor’ Concerto.

Pianist Jonathan Biss joins Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra for this epic work.

Beethoven's final piano concerto is also his largest in scale. It combines demanding solo passages with a huge orchestral sound and an unmistakable sense of heroism.

Beethoven’s ‘Emperor’ Piano Concerto

The ‘Emperor’ showcases both the power and delicacy of the piano.

Its virtuosic passages feature rich chords, a wide dynamic range and an almost constant musical conversation between soloist and orchestra.

In contrast, the beautiful slow movement offers a quieter and more reflective moment before the music heads towards its exhilarating conclusion.

For anyone wanting to experience Beethoven performed live in Hampshire, this is a chance to hear one of his greatest piano works.

Tchaikovsky’s Suite No. 3

The concert concludes with Tchaikovsky’s Suite No. 3.

The work opens with an Elegy that moves from gentle, flowing music towards more passionate themes.

It has all the hallmarks associated with Tchaikovsky, including beautiful melodies, emotional changes and rich orchestral writing.

Together, the three works create an evening that moves from ceremony to virtuosity and sweeping Romantic music.

A Classical Music Night Out in Portsmouth

Imperial Majesty takes place at Portsmouth Guildhall, right in the heart of the city.

The central location makes it easy to combine the concert with dinner or drinks and turn the performance into a full evening out.

You don't need an extensive knowledge of classical music to attend either. The programme contains recognisable musical styles and plenty of drama.

For couples and friends searching for different things to do in Portsmouth, a live Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra performance is well worth considering.

Good to Know Before You Go

The performance begins at 7pm on Thursday 19th November 2026.

Arrive with enough time to find your seats before the orchestra begins.

Anyone with accessibility or specific seating requirements should contact the venue or Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra before booking.

Tickets can be booked directly through Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra – Imperial Majesty.

More Things to Do in Portsmouth

Looking for more inspiration around your visit?

What’s On Hampshire features things to do in Portsmouth, including concerts, theatre, restaurants, attractions and seasonal events.

You can also discover what’s on in Hampshire, alongside local experiences and some of the best family days out in Hampshire.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Imperial Majesty at Portsmouth Guildhall?

The concert takes place on Thursday 19th November 2026 at 7pm.

Where is the concert?

It takes place at Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB.

Who is performing?

The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra performs under conductor Andrew Litton, with Jonathan Biss on piano.

What music will be performed?

The programme includes Walton’s Crown Imperial March, Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 ‘Emperor’ and Tchaikovsky’s Suite No. 3.

Who is the pianist?

Jonathan Biss is the featured pianist.

Is this suitable for someone new to classical music?

Yes. The programme features dramatic and accessible orchestral works, making it suitable for both established classical music fans and newcomers.

Where can I book?

Tickets are available directly from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.