BBC Symphony Orchestra

The opening piece is an imaginative portrait in sound of melting Nordic ice. Shimmering and delicate textures give way to more urgent music, after which the piece 'rewinds', offering a glimmer of hope for the future.

Brahms' magnificent Violin Concerto is deservedly one of his most popular works. After a noble, expansive opening section, the middle movement is one of his most beautiful, and the final is a vigorous Hungarian-tinged dance.

Beethoven's Fourth Symphony, sandwiched between two more famous neighbours, has a rewarding atmosphere all its own, from the mysterious slow introduction to the vigorous and joyful finale.

This concert will be recorded by BBC Radio 3.