Work: Concerto for Flute and Orchestra FS 119

It was the percussion which took the starring role as Haydn and Nielsen engaged in a lively skirmish at the Royal Festival Hall, the Philharmonia under the watchful command of Paavo Järvi. 

The BBC Symphony Orchestra was on great form in an exciting evening comprising a concerto and three symphonic works.

Carl Nielsen had an exceptional understanding of the nuances of woodwind instruments, and when playing the parts he wrote for flautists, the affection is almost palpable. Towards the end of his composing career, he thought of different orchestral instruments as having distinct personalities, and composed their interactions accordingly.