CBSO Beethoven's Pastoral

It’s summer – so it must be Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony. From its dewy-fresh opening to the serene Shepherd’s Hymn with which it closes, no composer has ever captured the healing power of nature more timelessly. Two centuries on, it’s still a candidate for the most relaxing piece of music ever written. Guest conductor Ludovic Morlot brings a uniquely Gallic lightness of touch to Beethoven’s inspiration – and plenty of colour for Bartók’s folk-flavoured miniatures. They’ll stand him in good stead for the amazing sound-world of Ligeti’s Violin Concerto. French virtuoso Renaud Capuçon brings all his skill to bear on the ravishing colours, child-like humour and crackling energy of this true modern classic.

Pre-concert talk, 6.15pm: Ligeti’s Violin Concerto
Writer and Broadcaster Anthony Burton on this 20th century masterpiece.