鈥淚 believe in civilisation鈥� said Jean Sibelius, and amidst the turmoil and uncertainty of the early 20th century, he created a final symphony of monumental grandeur and elemental strength. Sibelius鈥� Seventh Symphony might just be the greatest since Beethoven; what鈥檚 certain is that few composers share such a profound kinship. Alina Pogostkina finds the strength and calm at the heart of Beethoven鈥檚 lyrical Violin Concerto, and Donald Runnicles frames symphony and concerto alike in two stirring hymns to freedom: two supreme masters, separated by a century but both set alight by the unbreakable power of the human spirit.
Prelude: 6.45pm in the Recital Room
Tim Howell, renowned Sibelius expert from the University of York, introduces tonight鈥檚 programme.
There will be no coda after this concert.
