Spring Concert

Brahms’ fastidiousness, and his friends’ expectation that he would continue Beethoven’s inheritance, probably explains the arduous fourteen-year gestation period of this important work. It was a firm success, prompting conductor Hans von Bülow famously to dub the symphony Beethoven’s Tenth, thereby immortalising the value of Brahms’ achievement.

Returning to the Malvern platform, soloist Kathryn Rutland, formerly leader of Chandos Symphony Orchestra, takes time out of her position at the Royal Opera House Orchestra to present Elgar’s beloved concerto. Written for his own instrument at the height of his fame, and dedicated to Fritz Kreisler, this work electrifies with bravura technique and luscious melodies.