Brahms composed his Tragic Overture while on holiday in 1880, writing that ‘I could not refuse my melancholy nature the satisfaction of composing an overture for a tragedy.’ Whether or not Brahms had a particular tragedy in mind remains a mystery, but the Overture encompasses imposing, turbulent ideas, poignant lyricism and memorable rhythms.
Chopin’s Piano Concerto No.2 boasts one of his best-loved movements, the irresistibly romantic Larghetto, framed by an animated, intricate opening movement and a lively finale in the style of Polish folk-music.
Beethoven’s expansive ‘Pastoral’ Symphony is a magnificent mixture of charm and innovation, brimming with evocative melodies which create a vivid impression of the countryside in all its majesty.
An all-British programme, including Walton's Cello Concerto performed by Laura van der Heijden, BBC Young Musician 2012, and Elgar's 'Enigma' Variations.
Enrique Bátiz conducts Sibelius' Violin Concerto, with soloist Jack Liebeck, and Tchaikovsky's Fourth Symphony, preceded by Wagner's Overture to The Flying Dutchman.
Smetana's Bartered Bride Overture and Dvořák's Symphony No.7 frame Chopin's First Piano Concerto with soloist Leon McCawley, under the baton of Czech conductor Libor Pešek.
A concert of music by one of Britain's most dynamic composers, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, including his Sixth Symphony, Violin Concerto No.1, and the irrepressible Orkney Wedding.
A heady mix of new music and established classics, including the London premiere of Tarik O'Regan's Heart of Darkness Suite and Sibelius' Symphony No.2.
A sumptuous array of film and theatre music by Leonard Bernstein, including songs from West Side Story, Candide, On The Town, Wonderful Town and Trouble in Tahiti, alongside orchestral gems.
