César Franck’s only symphony begins in darkness – but by the end, it’s shouting jubilantly to the heavens. And with the French-born conductor Fabien Gabel conducting, you’ll wonder why we don’t hear it more often. It’s the grand, gothic climax to a concert that’s all about emotion: whether Berlioz’s wave-tossed overture, or the long, dreamy melodies of Frédéric Chopin – played by the incomparable Louis Schwizgebel.

Berlioz Le Corsaire: Overture, 9′
Chopin Piano Concerto No. 1, 39′
Franck Symphony in D minor, 41′

Louis Schwizgebel – Piano