France and Scotland renew old acquaintance in Hull Philharmonic Orchestra’s final concert of a successful season that will feature great music from the Romantic period at Hull City Hall on May 9 (7.30pm).

The music is French, by those dramatic and tuneful composers Berlioz and Saint-Saens, and the guest soloists are Scottish.

Cathy Marwood, who will be soloist in Berlioz’s concerto, Harold in Italy, is principal viola with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra viola and a member of the Hebrides Ensemble.

Glaswegian Donald Robinson, who will feature in Saint-Saens’ Cello Concerto in A minor, is a gifted young musician who has played with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra at the Proms.

The programme will open with Berlioz’s popular and tumultuous Roman Carnival, which requires a large orchestra.

This will be the Hull Philharmonic’s third City Hall concert of the season in addition to a performance at the Spa, Bridlington, and so far they have all drawn encouraging attendances.

“We hope this concert will provide an impressive finale,” said Andrew Penny, musical director. “We have some great music from two much-loved composers it should be a rewarding musical experience.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming two interesting and contrasting soloists. Cathy Marwood is well established and an experienced soloist, orchestral section leader and also in demand for smaller groups such as the Hebrides Ensemble. Sir Peter Maxwell Davies when he was Master of the Queen’s Music described her as one of the great glories of Scotland.

“Donald Robinson is new on the scene, but a great future is being predicted for him and we are pleased to be supporting him at this stage of his development.

“We hope our audience will turn out in force as their support is crucial especially as we are building towards the Hull City of Culture year. It has been gratifying to generate increased support this concert season.”

The second piece in the programme, the Saint-Saens Cello Concerto, is regarded by many as one of the greatest cello concertos while the concluding piece, Harold in Italy, was inspired by Byron’s epic poem, Childe Harold, and the composer’s wanderings through the Abruzzi mountains.

There will be a chance to meet the artists at 6.30pm in conversation with Hull Philharmonic musical director Andrew Penny.

Advance tickets from £7 to £25 are available throughhttp://www.hullphilharmonic.orgor the booking office (01482) 300 300.