Afternoon Performance: Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique by Berlioz, Beethoven, So. 24 Nov. 2024, Ab (2024/2024), Dirigat Ryan Wigglesworth, City Halls, Glasgow, Vereinigtes Königreich

A composer’s imagination is a dangerous place at the best of times; still, nothing in music quite tops the fabulous, opium-fuelled phantasmagoria that is Hector Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique. Born from unrequited desire, and sweeping from glittering romance to the foot of the guillotine, it continues to startle and amaze. Ryan Wigglesworth brings a composer’s insight, and teams up with BBC New Generation Artist (and musical all-rounder) Giorgi Gigashvilli to give a new sparkle to the young Beethoven’s happiest (and funniest) piano concerto. First though, we’re off to warmer climes with another Berlioz showstopper – the riotous dance-rhythms and blazing energy of his irresistible Roman Carnival overture. Fun in the sun, whatever the weather outside!