The first in a series of two concerts with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra featuring some of the most celebrated works in the Classical and Romantic repertoire.

The first five bars of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony portend something mysterious and momentous. The three short notes, one long, are often considered to represent Fate knocking at the door. Perhaps the most famous motif ever composed, it coincidentally signifies V in Morse code and became a call-sign symbolising Victory for the Allied Forces in WWII.

Full of conflict, turmoil and beauty, the Fifth Symphony is one of the greatest pieces ever composed, and the glorious Fifth Piano Concerto is a worthy companion. From opening improvisatory flourish, through introspective Adagio to rumbustious Rondo, it is truly an Emperor of the form.

A suitably heroic overture opens the concert: the prelude to Beethoven’s only opera, Fidelio, with its strong themes of loyalty, courage and unselfish love.