Video streamed event and on demand: Piano Pyrotechnics

Tchaikovsky’s Polonaise from Eugene Onegin is probably the greatest concert example of this dance ever written. Generally stately, this one has flair, with large orchestral gestures and the kind of catchy tune that sticks in the mind for ages. Chopin’s gift for melody absolutely shines throughout his First Piano Concerto, which established him as a talent to be watched and launched his international fame. It opens with a grand orchestral sweep before the piano enters with a dazzling display of technical virtuosity, culminating in a race to the end with a series of blazing scales and arpeggios both enthralling and exhausting. Mendelssohn’s impressions of the “comfortless, inhospitable solitude” of a Scottish walking holiday were the inspiration behind this stirring symphony, dedicated to Queen Victoria. Its haunting recurring theme came to the young composer as he explored the ruined chapel at Holyrood Palace.

BSO Digital Concerts are available to watch either as a simultaneous live event or on demand for 30 days after the performance date. To watch simply click on the 'My digital library' button at the top of the page and log in to your account (if you are not already) where you will find all digital events available to you.