Alice Mary Smith was a formidably talented mid-nineteenth century composer who as far as is known wrote the first symphony produced by a woman in this country. The Masque of Pandora was not completed before her untimely death, but its overture is a lively and attractive piece.

Britten’s early and lyrical concerto for violin and viola is “a wonderfully distinctive and characterful work” (The Guardian) and well worth this rare hearing.

Beethoven’s fifth symphony, from the most famous opening in music, builds steadily through its four movements from dramatic struggle, through doubt and uncertainty, to a blazing, triumphant conclusion.