Michael Petrov (cello) performs Tchaikovsky | Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Beginning the concert is the potent and weighty Egmont Overture, opening with strong, grand chords from the brass and strings set against soothing, plaintive cries from the woodwind. Grieg’s rich and glowing Two Elegiac Melodies for String Orchestra follows, depicting the wounds of life and the hope of faith.

Although the name Tchaikovsky prompts memories of alluring Romantic melodies and powerful orchestral works, he was a composer who revered Mozart above all others. This love influenced Tchaikovsky to write his charming Variations on a Rococo Theme, performed here by captivating cellist Michael Petrov.

During a visit to Italy, Mendelssohn was so inspired by the Southern climate that he composed his ‘Italian’ Symphony. Although not particularly Italian in style, the Symphony opens in a blaze of Mediterranean light with a sunny theme that has become one of the composer's best known and most-loved melodies.