Beethoven

“With the Eroica the symphony as a genre ceased to be a diversion, it demanded serious attention…capable of expressing ideals, of speaking for as well as to humanity.”

A fanfare-like flute melody announces Ludwig van Beethoven’s cheery Opus 25 Serenade, violin and viola soon responding in kind.

“When I was first approached to curate this selection, I found it difficult to find a cohesive theme for my picks. That was until I thought, rather than picking works that really impact me when I listen to them, how about I choose works that I’ve performed during my career so far, that have left a lasting impression? And so, this list took shape.”

“I have always been drawn to the intimate and vulnerable nature of chamber works, so this collection is an ode to the introverts out there. These smaller-scale works and soaring lines offer glimpses into sound capsules of different worlds – I hope you’ll find moments of incredibly moving depth and stillness.”

The mainstage is our epicentre, where a hundred voices move as one to delight, inspire, soothe and uplift. Join us with open hearts for the big human stories: revolution, loss, redemption and connection.

“I’m David Flynn, I play the double bass with the CSO, occasionally guitar or bass guitar if the right gig comes up. My first CSO gig was back in 1992, playing mandolin in a Prom concert. I made my bass debut in 1993. During the day, I’m found in the CSO office, either on the telephone selling tickets or doing the ‘behind the scenes’ work that enables a ticket to be sold.”

“Brahms’ Clarinet Quintet is one of the reasons I became a musician…lyrical, dramatic, melancholy, formally disciplined while at the same time full of Viennese elegance and Hungarian passion – it’s just one of my favourite pieces in the whole world.”

“At times it has seemed impossible to keep this mixtape under two hours…I’ve settled on a playlist of recordings that have, at one point or another, had a profound impact on my development as a musician and of which I can’t help but smile (or cry) when I listen to them.”

“I think a playlist made by a musician should change constantly, according to the interests, what we are studying and the research we are doing. This playlist is the result of five months without live concerts but a lot of time spent studying different repertoire.”

Kiri Sollis, CSO Piccolo: “The musicians I most respect and enjoy listening to have skills that allow them to transcend their instrument and genre to articulate something of themselves in what they are playing.”