The National Orchestra, directed by Michael Laus will present a concert at the Manoel Theatre in Valletta on May 31 at 7.30 p.m.

Among the works being played is the Schumann Piano concerto in A minor, op.54 which is among the most popular piano concertos ever written.

Originally a fantasia for piano and orchestra written in 1841, Schumann added the other two movements in 1845 thus creating the work as we know it.

The soloist will be Caroline Calleja, who is among the leading pianists of her generation and by now needs no introduction to local audiences.

Also needing no introduction is Tchaikovsky's Symphony n. 5 in E minor, op. 64. It was composed 11 years after his previous numbered symphony and three years after writing his completely programmatic Manfred Symphony.

Tchaikovsky dedicated his Fifth Symphony to his benefactress Nadezhda von Meck whom he never met at all. The symphony is like an almost continuous struggle between the composer and fate, over whom he finally emerges triumphant.

Rather obscure in comparison is the overture to Cherubini's opera Lodoiska. It will be performed at the very beginning of the concert and it is the only piece of this work which has survived in the concert hall.

The opera was very popular and influential in its time. It was an early example of the so-called rescue genre of the opera and is now almost completely forgotten.

Booking is at the Manoel Theatre box office. Students and senior citizens pay half-price. Tel. 2126 6389; e-mail bookings@teatrumanoel.com.mt