Orchestra of the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, Rome

The Sinfonia is authentic Verdi, written for the all-important Italian premiere of the opera, but unexpectedly withdrawn after rehearsal. Rather like Beethoven's uncertainty about his Leonore overtures, Verdi may have felt that its dramatic weight distracted from, rather than added to, the drama of the opera. Liszt's concerto broke new ground in form as well as staggering virtuosity. It encompasses dramatic opening, slow movement, scherzo and finale in one continuous musical structure. Mahler's first symphonic journeys from a magical, hushed opening to a jubilant conclusion, and shows the young composer excitedly exploring the full range of musical expression.

"How swiftly Pappano has forged a rapport with his superb Roman players." The Observer