Live from the Royal Albert Hall in London, James Naughtie presents an evening of music performed by Japan's leading orchestra, the NHK Symphony, conducted by Charles Dutoit. The concert commences with Japanese composer Toru Takemitsu's Ceremonial - an Autumn Ode and featuring a solo by Mayumi Miyata on the sho, a traditional Japanese reed instrument. Then, Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No 3, with acclaimed pianist Martha Argerich. Finally, after the interval, a performance of Shostakovich's Fifth Symphony, subtitled "A Soviet Artist's Practical Creative Reply to Just Criticism".

During the interval, James Naughtie talks to Charles Dutoit about his role as chief conductor of the NHK Symphony Orchestra and looks back over his distinguished career, spanning more than 30 years.
(W)
Also broadcast on Radio 3 and on the internet via [web address removed]
(BBC CD: The Best Proms Album in the World ... Ever! available from retailers)

Martha Argerich, the reluctant legend: page 21
(Subsequent programme may change)