BBC National Orchestra of Wales - Walton, Elgar, John Pickard

Live from BBC Hoddinott Hall, Cardiff, Martyn Brabbins conducts the BBC National Orchestra of Wales in Elgar's ever-popular Cello Concerto with soloist Alban Gerhardt, the composer's passionate outpouring of grief and disillusionment in the wake of the First World War. In contrast, Walton's riotous overture celebrates the 70th anniversary of the founding of Johannesburg, complete with African rhythms. John Pickard's new work is, perhaps surprisingly in the 21st century, still a traditional symphony. It features three sets of timpani spatially separated across the stage, not simply used to create a lot of noise, but to explore melodic lines between the three players.

Presented by Nicola Hewyood Thomas

Walton: Johannesburg Festival Overture
Elgar: Cello Concerto

8.15 During the interval, Nicola talks to soloist Alban Gerhardt about his close relationship to BBC NOW since his days as one of the first Radio 3 new Generation Artists, and listens to some of his most recent recordings.

8.35
John Pickard: Symphony No. 5 [world premiere]

Alban Gerhardt (cello)
BBC National Orchestra of Wales
Martyn Brabbins (conductor).