We are a country full of surprises. In response to the UK NOW FESTIVAL campaign in China, the 2012 Beijing Music festival had plans to adopt a British theme. The organiser’s original ambition had been to feature a dream line-up

Paulus (St. Paul), Op. 36 (1836) On 4 May 1836, Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) happily conducted the chorus of the Frankfurt Cäcilienverein, substituting for an indisposed colleague. Although he was certainly concentrating on the music, his eyes got distracted by a

Tomás Luis de Victoria (1548-1611) should undoubtedly be considered the most significant Spanish composer of his time. He exclusively devoted his life and creative energies to the Catholic Church, and became one of the leading musical figures of the Counter-Reformation.

Gerald Finzi – Dies Natalis, Op.8: III. The Rapture : Danza Mark Padmore, tenor Britten Sinfonia Jacqueline Shave, director From Benjamin Britten / Gerald Finzi (2012) Released by Harmonia Mundi Gerald Finzi – Dies Natalis, Op.8: III. The Rapture :

Jacqueline Mary du Pré (1945-1987) is arguably one of the most gifted cellists of our time. She is particularly remembered for her legendary debut performance of Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E minor (one of the favourite cello concertos of all

Nearly every day I see large advertisements promoting hearing devices. There is certainly a need. Hearing plays an essential role in communication, language development and learning. Even a small amount of hearing loss can have a profound, negative effect on

On 17 March 1907, Gustav Mahler (1860-1911) resigned the Artistic Directorship of the Vienna Court Opera. For years on end, discontent over his lavish salary, his extended musical tours promoting his own works, and persistent anti-Semitic attacks had finally taken

Violin Concerto no. 4 in A Major – Rondo Jena Philharmonic Orchestra Friedemann Eichhorn, violin Nicolas Pasquet, conductor From Pierre Rode: Violin Concertos (2011) Released by Naxos Pierre Rode: Violin Concerto no. 4 in A Major – Rondo Pierre Rode