Schumann’s Manfred Overture is masterfully and economically scored, with an unerringly dramatic pace. It immediately casts a spell with its unsettled opening that grows in passion and urgency, setting the scene for the action that will follow. Written in quick succession, both the Schicksalslied and Alto Rhapsody focus on one of Brahms’ favourite themes; the futility of man’s destiny in a storm-tossed world. Beethoven’s Eighth is a shorter, lighter, and far more good-humoured symphony than its imposing neighbours. It surges with confidence and is full of witty touches – the constant ticking of a metronome or a dance you cannot dance to!