Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra

Three fantastic favourites close the series. First, the overture written after Mendelssohn’s 1829 visit to Fingal’s Cave on the Scottish island of Staffa. Its sweeping, broody theme captures the grandeur of both cave and islands, though he himself referred to it solely as The Hebrides. Another Classic FM hit (Number One five times), Bruch’s most famous work (for which he never received a penny!), follows, complete with its yearning E flat adagio. Beethoven’s second (the first ever to replace minuet with scherzo) was written in his prime, at 31, but is still known as the final work of his ‘early’ period, and, like the first symphony, its obvious 18th century Viennese roots are plain to hear and enjoy.

Pre-concert talk (6.30pm to 7pm): free entry using your ticket for the concert.