Bruch Violin Concerto No. 1

Beethoven was drawn to characters, fictional or real, who dared to stand up against injustices. Egmont in Goethe's drama of the same name was one such fictional but clear role model for Beethoven. In the overture, he encapsulates the drama, from the slow introduction through tragedy to a triumphant conclusion. The orchestra is led by the young and increasingly renowned Czech conductor Jirí Rozen, making his debut with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra.

Triumphant melodies are also found in Max Bruch's first violin concerto, one of classical music's most beloved concertos. It's heavenly beautiful music with irresistible romantic fervor. The soloist is the exceptional South Korean violinist Inmo Yang, winner of two of the world's most prestigious violin competitions: the Paganini Competition in Genoa and the Sibelius Competition in Helsinki. He now debuts with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra.

In Dora Pejacevic's music, traces of Wagner, Brahms, and Bruckner can be found, but it is also strongly personal with rich colors and profound seriousness. After a cautious, slow introduction, this symphony from 1918 moves into contrasting and determined music, painting vivid natural scenes. The music also features exuberant pirouettes that are swept away by dazzling climaxes towards the end. It's an impressive work by a composer who was long neglected.