Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra, Stephen Bell (conductor), Martin Owen (horn)

Richard Strauss’ horn concerto no. 1 was a perfect showcase for Martin Owen’s commanding tone and mellifluous playing providing different colours to the orchestral soundworld of a fantastic programme. The centrepiece of the afternoon however was undoubtedly Bruckner’s symphony no. 4, and if you’ve never heard any Bruckner live before then I urge you to try it out. The BPO brought out the glorious, thick brushes of sound in the bold, almost brash symphony’s accessible melodies with vigour and blistering bluster. An hour flew by in a rush of rich, stunning playing and the more understated moments were gracefully conducted by Stephen Bell.

Concert Hall, Brighton Dome

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