A NORTH-EAST conductor who has achieved global acclaim will be returning to his hometown to explore America and the evocative music of its states.

John Wilson’s latest appearance with the Royal Northern Sinfonia, at Sage Gateshead, at 3pm on Sunday (January 18) forms part of his Classic FM Sunday Afternoon series,

He explores the hazy downtown New York of Bernstein and Gershwin, to the spritely, guns-blazing, western-esque Hoe Down by Copland, via the sweeping landscapes painted by Barber’s Essay No.1. Joining Wilson is British pianist Leon McCawley performing Gershwin’s sumptuous Piano Concerto in F major.

Born and brought up in Gateshead, Wilson has gone on to achieve great things, notably with the John Wilson Orchestra performing popular big band and swing classics to sell-out audiences across the country.

The Classic FM Sunday Afternoon series sees him return to his classical roots, serving up those favourite orchestral pieces with Royal Northern Sinfonia.

Wilson returns again in March, bringing another local along for the performance.

Sir Thomas Allen, who hails from Seaham Harbour, east Durham, will join Wilson, singing a number of traditional ditties and relaxed English operetta arias, at 3pm on Sunday (March 15).

Sunday’s American Dream matinee programme is part of Sage Gateshead’s Classic FM series, Royal Northern Sinfonia being the national radio station’s orchestra in the North-East.

Tickets are £10-£33. Box office: 0191-443 4661 or www.sagesgateshead.com.

Gavin Engelbrecht