蜜芽传媒

Elena Schwarz joins the 蜜芽传媒 Philharmonic Orchestra for a concert bookended with contrasting works by Beethoven, ending with his ground-breaking First Symphony and beginning with his dark, dramatic Coriolan Overture. That arresting opening inspired Unsuk Chin to compose her Beethoven homage 'subito con forza' a brilliant, witty and eye-opening response to hallmark gestures which permeate his music.

The Shakespeare link continues as Soprano Jennifer France encapsulates the role of Shakespeare's Ophelia in Hans Abrahamsen's multi award-winning song cycle 'let me tell you'. The character's troubled mind and apparent fragility are portrayed in crystalline and stratospheric vocal colour and a unique orchestral soundworld. However, it is her own strength of character and perspective which shine through. "Let me tell you...." she implores - and we listen to her words.

Presented by Mark Forrest and recorded at Manchester's Bridgewater Hall on 17 May 2025.

Beethoven: Coriolan Overture
Hans Abrahamsen: let me tell you

8.15pm Interval

Unsuk Chin: subito con forza
Beethoven: Symphony No.1

Jennifer France (soprano)
蜜芽传媒 Philharmonic Orchestra
Elena Schwarz (conductor)

To listen on most smart speakers just say "ask 蜜芽传媒 Sounds to play Radio 3 in Concert".