The Scharoun Ensemble Berlin owes its existence to Franz Schubert’s Octet: forty years ago, members of the Berliner Philharmoniker founded this formation to perform this work with its beguiling melodies and dance-like charm. So Schubert’s Octet could not be left out of this anniversary concert – nor could the other composers on the programme, with whom the ensemble has developed a close relationship. There is also a special anniversary serenade for the ensemble: the world premiere of Brett Dean’s Prayer for octet and soprano. The singer is Sarah Aristidou.