Film Screening: The Trout (1969)

Part of Classical Season 2017/18

Nearly 50 years on, see Christopher Nupen’s documentary of a historic performance of Schubert’s Trout Quintet in the newly reopened Queen Elizabeth Hall.

In 1969, five young musicians were filmed by Nupen for what became a landmark classical music documentary.

They were Daniel Barenboim (piano), Jacqueline du Pré (cello), Itzhak Perlman (violin), Zubin Mehta (double bass) and Pinchas Zukerman (viola).

Eventually to establish themselves as acclaimed artists, the musicians are shown in intimate backstage scenes laughing together as they prepare to play. They then go on to deliver a virtuosic performance.

The Hall had been open for less than two years at the time the film was made. As we reopen the updated venue after refurbishment, we invite you to look back at its history through the prism of this joyful documentary.