Edinburgh's Usher Hall celebrates 100 years with Mogwai and Rufus Wainwright

Originally constructed in 1914, Edinburgh's Usher Hall offers a sumptuous environment in which to experience not just classical music, but contemporary artists too – and to celebrate their 100th anniversary, they are planning a series of concerts that will pay homage to the rich musical heritage which has flourished in the grand building over the past century. 

The big 100th Birthday Concert takes place on 6 March next year, with a selection of music presented at the Usher Hall's opening 100 years ago. The Royal Scottish National Orchestra and the Edinburgh Royal Choral Union will be taking part, adding their music and voices to the sound of the Usher Hall's organ, one of the features which makes the concert hall so unique. RSNO Principal Guest Conductor Thomas Søndergård will be leading the musicians in what promises to be a joyous celebration of the classical music legacy, with music by Wagner, Rachmaninov, Mendelssohn, MacCunn, Bach, Parry and Beethoven's Fifth Symphony.

Just announced today are two gigs which pay homage to the Usher Hall's enduring relationship with more contemporary music. On 5 March, Rufus Wainwright will be in town to play a 'greatest hits' show, while on 8 March, the resurgent Mogwai will take the stage to debut material from forthcoming album Rave Tapes, supported by fellow Scottish indie rock royalty The Pastels and Remember Remember. Tickets for both gigs go on sale via the Usher Hall on Friday 13 December at 9am.

From the archives

FEATURES
Hardcore 4 Life: Mogwai's Stuart Braithwaite in interview
Pleasure Palaces: Remember Remember's recording space
Summit Special: The Pastels' Stephen McRobbie