BBC National Orchestra of Wales performs composition by St John's undergraduate

Elliot was the youngest of eight composers selected to take part in Composition: Wales 2026 (Cyfansoddi: Cymru), a development scheme supporting Welsh and Wales-based composers. The programme offers participants the opportunity to receive expert feedback on their work and mentoring from leading composers and conductors through a series of workshops.

The 2026 scheme was led by conductor Jac van Steen and composer Gavin Higgins, Composer-in-Association with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (BBC NOW). Following the workshops, the selected compositions were performed and recorded by the orchestra at a culmination concert at Hoddinott Hall in Cardiff Bay.

Elliot’s original composition, Firenze, is comprised of eight miniatures which tells the tale of two people and the entanglement of their lives. While the piece unfolds linearly, it is not an account of the entire story, acting rather as a compilation of its most salient scenes; each movement is a window into an important moment between these characters. Interestingly, the music first came to life as a chamber work and was subsequently orchestrated and reimagined into its current form. The colours of the orchestra enable the music to truly flourish, and its forces facilitate the depth of drama demanded by the material.

The performance of Firenze, along with the other works developed as part of Composition: Wales 2026, is available to watch on BBC iPlayer (from 47:53). A recording of the concert will also be broadcast on BBC Radio 3 later in 2026.

Reflecting on the experience, Elliot said:

Many congratulations to Elliot on this outstanding achievement!