Beethoven Symphony No 4

The BBC Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sakari Oramo, perform Cecilia Damström's Ice, Detlev Glanert's Harp Concerto with soloist Elizabeth Bass, and Beethoven's Symphony No.4.

Presented by Martin Handley. Recorded at the Barbican on Friday 30th January 2026.

Cecilia Damström: ICE
Detlev Glanert: Harp Concerto

20.10 Interval

Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No. 4 in B flat major

Elizabeth Bass (harp)
BBC Symphony Orchestra
Sakari Oramo (conductor)

“A Grecian maiden” was how one 19th century critic described Beethoven’s Fourth Symphony, but no words really do justice to the sparkling humour and pure, irrepressible life-force of this firecracker of a symphony. It’s a perfect counterpart to Detlev Glanert’s stunning new Harp Concerto – inspired by the harp’s ancient roots and glowing with the sunlight of Ancient Greece.

We’re always excited to perform the music of this wonderfully communicative German composer, and for this performance, inspired by the virtuosity of BBC Symphony Orchestra harpist Elizabeth Bass, Glanert has given the concerto a complete makeover. To open, there’s a postcard from Finland: Cecilia Damström’s evocation of the beauty of winter doubles as an urgent bulletin from the frontline of the climate crisis.

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