Fabien Gabel conducts Sibelius’ Fifth Symphony: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

About the Event

Works by Schumann, Tchaikovsky, and Sibelius are featured on this Royal Philharmonic program under the baton of Fabien Gabel at Cadogan Hall.

Schumann became obsessed with Byron’s Manfred in 1829, writing: ‘Agitated state of mind – read Byron’s Manfred in bed – terrible night.’ It was 20 years before he wrote incidental music based on the poem; the Overture, with its chilling dramatic touches, was considered by Brahms to be Schumann’s first symphony. Schumann himself declared, ‘Never have I devoted myself to a composition with such love and energy as to Manfred.’

With its magnificent opening theme, Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No.1, performed by the wonderful Natasha Paremski, brims with passion. Symphony No.5 by Sibelius is one of his most glorious achievements, its horn‐filled finale a spine‐tingling triumph.