Beethoven 200: III

The third of four all-Beethoven concerts with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra marking 200 years since the composer’s death.The driving rhythms of the Coriolan Overture open this concert conducted by Michalis Economou, followed by the dramatic Third Piano Concerto and the powerful, iconic Fifth Symphony.The first five bars of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony portend something mysterious and momentous.

The three short notes, one long, are often considered to represent Fate knocking at the door.

Perhaps the most famous motif ever composed, it coincidentally signifies V in Morse code and became a call-sign symbolising Victory for the Allied Forces in WWII.

Full of conflict, turmoil and beauty, the Fifth Symphony is one of the greatest pieces ever composed.The outer movements of Piano Concerto No.3 combine symphonic grandeur with an eloquent pathos, framing a ruminative, serene Largo.

Celebrated pianist Elizabeth Sombart returns as soloist.