Synopsis

Across three centuries, these masterworks offer distinct perspectives: Beethoven’s First Symphony embodies the elegance and playful intelligence of the 18th century, Bruch’s First Violin Concerto overflows with 19th-century sentimentality, and Walton’s Henry V honors the grandeur of 20th-century film scores. Sir Neville Marriner conducts the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, with Joshua Bell, the Academy's Music Director, featured both as conductor (Beethoven) and soloist (Bruch).