Melody and medicine combine as two Manchester doctors take part in epic concert

Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 3rd, as the harmonies of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.3 interweave with the healing spirits of two cancer doctors from The Christie NHS Foundation Trust.

Joined by a host of talented physicians, The European Doctors Orchestra will grace the stage, turning the evening into an unforgettable symphonic spectacle, all in support of The Christie Charity.

Cancer Doctors Join European Orchestra for Charity Concert

On Sunday, September 3rd, an exceptional display of musical artistry will grace Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall.

But it’s not the Halle Orchestra, or the BBC Philharmonic who will be performing.

Cancer Doctors Shine on Stage Alongside The European Doctors Orchestra

In a surprising collaboration, two cancer doctors from The Christie NHS Foundation Trust will share the limelight with a cohort of 100 doctors hailing from various corners of Europe.

The concert, organised as part of The European Doctors Orchestra, is primed to deliver an extraordinary evening of artistic excellence while generously supporting The Christie Charity.

Mahler’s Symphony No.3, The Joyful Science

Mahler’s Symphony No.3, originally named “The Joyful Science,” embarks on an evocative odyssey that spans the cosmos and delves into the profound nuances of human achievement and love.

The symphony unveils the intricate connections between mankind, science, and nature, inviting the audience to contemplate the essence of humanity itself.

Accompanied by a grand orchestra under the baton of Timothy Redmond, and graced by the voices of St George’s Singers, choristers of Blackburn and Salford Cathedral, and the mesmerizing Mezzo-soprano Sarah Castle (Royal Opera House, Bayreuth Festival), this performance promises an emotionally charged experience.

Drs. Rohan Shotton and Daniel Saunders

Dr. Rohan Shotton, a clinical research fellow specialising in medical oncology at The Christie, has been an integral part of the orchestra for a decade, serving as the principal percussionist.

Joining him is Dr. Daniel Saunders, a consultant clinical oncologist and associate medical director, showcasing his oboe skills on stage.

A Special Concert with a Cause

Speaking to I Love Manchester, Dr. Shotton reflects, “Being part of this special group is a privilege.

“Brilliant doctors, brilliant musicians.

“It holds a place in my heart as it’s where I met my wife – an intensive care doctor.

“We’re excited to perform in our city and support a cherished charity.”

Dr. Saunders echoes his sentiments, saying “Performing with the orchestra for the first time is exhilarating.

“Talented doctors, remarkable music.

“The audience is in for an unforgettable evening, and the ticket sales contribute to aiding cancer patients and their families.”

The European Doctors Orchestra’s Noble Cause

The orchestra gathers its dedicated members, including doctors, from all over Europe for three to four performances annually.

Rehearsing independently and then joining for intensive practice, each doctor pays their way to maximise charitable contributions.

This is the first time the Orchestra will be raising money for the Christie.

A Symphony of Hope and Discovery at The Bridgewater Hall

Dr. Shotton highlights, “Charity funding transforms lives. My work in lymphoma research, supported by the charity, ensures today’s patients and future generations benefit.”

The event encompasses more than the performance, featuring a pre-concert talk, “Mahler, Malady, and Music,” delving into the intersections of medicine and music.

Tickets, ranging from £20 to £30, offer a chance to participate in this enriching experience.

You can get your tickets here.

Event Timings 

 1.30pm: Auditorium doors open 

2-3pm: Mahler, Malady and Music talk 

4pm: Part One of the performance 

4.40pm: Interval 

5pm: Part Two of the performance 

6pm: Event ends 

The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester M2 3WS 

About The Christie

The Christie Charity provides enhanced services over and above what the NHS funds.

They fundraise for vital new projects such as a new cancer centre in Macclesfield which opened in 2021 and a new world-class transformational research facility which opened in 2023.

You can find out more about this by clicking here.

The Christie Charity is one of the largest NHS charities in the UK.

It has over 50,000 supporters who helped raise £13.2m this year. With 82p in every pound raised going directly to the patients, it works hard to make sure the money donated is spent where the hospital needs it most.

If you’d like to donate to this amazing charity initiative, please click here for more information.