Described by its composer as a ‘Grand Heroic-Romantic Opera’, Euryanthe flopped in the theatre. Its overture, however, has always appealed to audiences, perhaps because it lets us hear the music from the opera without the burden of its preposterous plot.
Another work that was an instant hit was Bruch’s First Violin Concerto. And rightly so, with its infectious blend of romance and gypsy vivacity. In Benjamin Beilman’s hands, this will be a treat.
Webern’s loving setting of J.S. Bach is followed by Mendelssohn’s tribute to Martin Luther, ending with the sturdy chorale ‘A Mighty Fortress Is Our God’.
