Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

Respighi’s most popular works are his triptych of wonderfully orchestrated musical impression of the Eternal City. Vividly sumptuous and dazzling Pines of Rome depicts the centuries old trees that dominate the Roman landscape that have stood witness to the passing of time, scenes of everyday life and marching Imperial legions. Khachaturian’s acclaimed 1956 ballet depicts the turbulent life of a slave, turned gladiator, turned revolutionary who almost brought the Roman Empire to its knees. The music is a tour de force of epic proportions evoking the splendour and barbarism of life during these brutal times, as well as moments of delicate tenderness as in the famous adagio. With its graceful main theme and resourceful invention, the Rococo Variations remains one of Tchaikovsky’s most popular pieces. It is a work characterised by carefree charm, grace and the indomitable spirit of his idol, Mozart, filtered through his Russian and Romantic sensibilities.