Let There Be Light

Nielsen’s musical depiction of the Greek sun god’s chariot ride across the sky begins with a serene sunrise that almost imperceptible grows from darkness building to a vigorous depiction of the brilliance of the Aegean summer day, and ending with the gentle waning of the day into night. From its explosive, dramatic opening, Grieg’s dazzlingly original Piano Concerto communicates with fiery passion, sustaining interest and excitement throughout. The music is imbued with a Nordic quality echoing traditional Norwegian dances and instruments. For his depiction of sunrise, Adès’ Dawn is imagined as a constant event that moves continuously around the world. The Symphonic Dances proved to be Rachmaninov’s last work, and the music suggests a new direction he might have pursued had fate granted him more time. In contrast to the lush harmonies and sweeping melodic lines that pervade his earlier style, it offers a more modern sound of leaner textures and sharper harmonies together with a wondrous kaleidoscope of instrumental colours. With its incisive dance rhythms inspired by folk and jazz, the work finally explodes with visceral energy.