This 19th century romantic programme promised much, with familiar and rare works by Beethoven, Brahms, Dvořák and Schumann. Could the great orchestra and soloists meet our high expectations?
Introducing a relatively unknown young pianist to Birmingham Symphony Hall and performing an old standard of the symphonic repertoire, could Vladimir Ashkenazy and the Philharmonia Orchestra produce any surprises?
Somewhere in the region of 180 singers and instrumentalists faced Andrew Manze as he took the podium at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall. Could he handle them? There was never any doubt.
Cristian Măcelaru brought his pedigree as a conductor to the CBSO with Sibelius, Rachmaninov and Nielsen. How would he fare in Birmingham with such a varied programme?
Longborough Festival Opera have opted for Donizetti for the first time, with Don Pasquale. How successful would the cast be at unleashing the ‘feel-good factor’ of opera buffa?
Producing one of the most well-known and popular operas in a fresh way on a limited budget is a challenge for anyone. Longborough Festival Opera show how it can be done.
After seven years at the helm, Andris Nelsons gave his last performance with the CBSO at Symphony Hall. His future in Boston is secured, but what of the CBSO?
The Czech Philharmonic performing Mahler’s Second Symphony at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall equals great expectation. The composer and symphony have historical links to the orchestra and venue alike. Could Bělohlávek deliver?
