RPO: Brahms 1

Drama, fantasy and something wholly new: music by Brahms, Debussy and Laurence Osborn. Brahms' First Symphony begins with the beating of a heart in torment and ends with a hymn of triumph. Debussy's Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune is very different — a soft, sultry flute opens the gateway to a dream-world of sensuous sound, brought thrillingly to life by guest conductor Ariane Matiakh, making her RPO debut. In between, superstar cellist Zlatomir Fung gives the world premiere of a magical new work by innovative British composer Laurence Osborn, inspired by the world after dark.

Programme: Debussy – Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune; Laurence Osborn – Sun Sundered Head: Nocturne for Cello and Orchestra (world premiere); Brahms – Symphony No. 1

Performers: Ariane Matiakh (conductor), Zlatomir Fung (cello), Royal Philharmonic Orchestra