An evening of Russian composers is on offer from the de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra at the University of Herts’ Weston Auditorium next Sunday, February 7.

The concert at 7.30pm features Rachmaninov’s Symphonic Dances from 1940 which were his last-ever composition and show him at the height of his orchestral powers.

That will be followed by Shostakovich’s Symphony No.5 from 1937 which was so instantly popular that it led to a huge standing ovation for the composer.

The concert in Hatfield, conducted by Robin Browning, comes at a time when the Russian influence can be felt on TV with War and Peace, Lucy Worsley on the Romanovs and the Russian-themed R4 Start the Week

Admission is £20 with concessions £15, children £8 and students £6, available by calling 01707 281127 or booking online here.