English Symphony Orchestra

Elgar – In The South 21’
Korngold – Violin Concerto 24’
Tchaikovsky – 4^th Symphony 42’

Jac van Steen – conductor
Zoe Beyers – violin

Tchaikovsky’s most uplifting and exuberant symphony, the Fourth, emerged following a period of profound personal crisis. As a declaration of new-found confidence, hope and optimism, it is almost without equal in the symphonic world.

Erich Wolfgang Korngold had spent many of his prime years as a film composer and his sumptuous Violin Concerto is a work that overflows with a decade of melodic riches Korngold had been waiting to share with the world whilst in exile.

Elgar, much like his hero Brahms, approached writing a first symphony with a mix of trepidation and anxiety. His first sustained attempt to compose one in 1903 produced no symphony, but instead Elgar’s greatest tone poem, In the South.

ESO has introduced the new ESO Insight Series. These relaxed, engaging pre‑performance conversations offer a closer look at the stories, ideas, and creative voices behind each programme. Led by the musicians and composers who shape our performances, the Insight Series invites you to arrive a little earlier at 2pm, settle in, and enjoy a more connected start to your evening with the ESO. Free to ticket holders and no need to book