Worthing Symphony Orchestra: Nature Unchained

Vast horizons, surging rivers and untamed landscapes take centre stage as Worthing Symphony Orchestra presents Nature Unchained — a sweeping musical journey through the power and poetry of the natural world.

Jerome Moross’s The Big Country sets the scene with wide-open skies and cinematic grandeur, its bold, expansive themes capturing the spirit of the frontier. From there, John Barry’s Dances with Wolves brings a more reflective beauty, its haunting melodies evoking a profound connection between humanity and the land.

The intoxicating beauty of the Mediterranean garden at La Mortella on the island of Ischia is the inspiration behind William Walton’s Cello Concerto, performed by Laura van der Heijden. By turns introspective and impassioned, this deeply expressive work places the soloist at the heart of a shifting emotional landscape.

The concert culminates with one of the most beloved musical depictions of nature. Bedřich Smetana’s evocation of the course of the river Vltava as it flows through his beloved homeland.  As the river winds its way through the countryside, Smetana’s music unfolds in a series of vivid scenes, building towards a majestic and unforgettable close.

By turns cinematic, impressionistic and deeply personal, Nature Unchained is a celebration of the landscapes that shape us — music that surges, sparkles and ultimately carries us away.

Laura van der Heijden is recognised as one of the leading cellists of her generation. Recipient of the 2025 Royal Philharmonic Society Instrumentalist Award, she continues to captivate audiences and critics alike with her deeply perceptive interpretations and engaging, imaginative programming.

Since winning the BBC Young Musician in 2012, aged 15, Laura has built a thriving and varied international career, working with distinguished conductors including the late Sir Andrew Davis, Alpesh Chauhan, Nick Collon, Richard Egarr, Gemma New, and Karl-Heinz Steffens. 

Recent concerto highlights include performances with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, London Philharmonic, CBSO, Aurora Orchestra, and Scottish Chamber Orchestra, as well as a play/direct programme with Britten Sinfonia.