Inmo Yang plays Bartók’s First Violin Concerto

The evening begins with the folk-inflected textures of George Enescu, specifically his Rhapsody in A Major. You will hear how he weaves traditional Romanian melodic shapes into a lush orchestral framework. This serves as a spirited lead-in to Béla Bartók’s First Violin Concerto. This work is notably personal, divided into two distinct movements: the first is lyrical and expressive, written during the composer's youth, while the second introduces more rhythmic complexity and friction. Following an interval, the scale of the music shifts toward the German symphonic tradition with Johannes Brahms’s Symphony No 1 in C minor. We recommend listening for the way the final movement moves from a sombre opening toward a broad, confident theme that echoes the legacy of Beethoven. The arc of the performance travels from the vibrant, almost improvisational feel of village dances to a monumental work of symphonic architecture that occupied the composer for over twenty years.

Sakari Oramo leads the BBC Symphony Orchestra, an ensemble deeply embedded in London’s musical life and renowned for its versatility across historical and contemporary repertoire. Oramo, their Chief Conductor, is well-regarded for his clarity and structural command. Joining them is soloist Inmo Yang. As a violinist, Yang has built a reputation for his technical precision and thoughtful interpretations of both standard and modern concertos. While the orchestra is a mainstay of the BBC Proms, tonight they appear in their resident setting, bringing their characteristic curiosity to this mix of folk-inspired and classical structures.

This performance takes place at the Barbican in London and has a total duration of 120 minutes, which includes an interval. For those new to the concert hall, the programme offers a good balance of shorter, melodic pieces and a substantial four-movement symphony, making it an accessible introduction to the orchestral experience. There is no specific dress code required at this venue; most attendees choose smart-casual attire. Please note that the symphony occupies the second half of the evening following the break.