92. A quick and tasty Italian feast: Verdi Nabucco Overture
Even more irresistible than the Italian football team and their ace national anthem is Verdi’s overture to Nabucco. It’s rousing and joyous and simply one of my favourite things. [13 minute listen]… Listen
90. Highland Fling? Mendelssohn, ‘Scottish’ Symphony (pt2)
How Scottish do you have to be to be worthy of the name? If you’re going to write a Scottish Symphony should it contain Scottish music? Does Mendelssohn pass the test? Regardless, his Symphony No.3 is brilliant, moving and surprising… (29 mins)… Listen
89. Highland Fling? Mendelssohn, ‘Scottish’ Symphony (Part 1)
Every time I hear it, I’m amazed by the power and emotion in Mendelssohn’s music. Inspired by a trip to Scotland, his Symphony No.3 delights and surprises, without resorting to bagpipes! Listening time: 32 mins (Podcast 12′, music 20′)… Listen
86. Beethoven at the theme park? Symphony No.4
Exhilarating and fun, Beethoven’s fourth symphony is like one of the best days out. This is Beethoven in the best of moods and relishing what’s possible. It’s a joyful ride! (Listening time 43′)… Listen
80. Life’s still a rollercoaster baby – Tchaikovsky, Symphony No.4 [Part 2/2]
Battered, bruised but not broken, Tchaikovsky’s emotional rollercoaster ride continues… Does this ride finish with squeals of terror or delight? [34 mins]… Listen
71.Star spangled banners and unanswered questions – Ives: 3 Places in New England
Great music to mark the US Presidential hand-over! Raucous fun alongside the deep and meaningful, Three Places in New England is challenging, confusing, complex, silly and surprising music that leaves me baffled but smiling and moved too! A hundred years old but way ahead of its time from one of America’s first great composers, Charles Ives. Listening time 28mins.… Listen
61/62.Generous, positive and humane – Dvorak’s music is great for cheering us up (Symphony no.6)
It’s great to be able to escape from life’s concerns. Dvorak’s sixth symphony is full of good tunes, and a spirit of generosity and optimism. So forget about everything else for a bit and bask in Dvorak’s warmth and positivity. 35, 24 or 57 mins listen!… Listen
60 Burgeoning Spring, Love and Fortune: Carmina Burana
Burgeoning Spring, Love and Fate: Carmina Burana
They say you never forget your first loves and one of mine was Carmina Burana – it’s immediate and high impact. Even before I was properly into music I was into this… and you will be too! There’s really nothing like the sound of a huge choir and orchestra: it’s awesome stuff! Listening time: 35mins … Listen