Relayed from the National Museum of Wales
National Orchestra of Wales
(Cerddorfa Genedlaethol Cymru)

From a very early age Tchaikovsky was strongly attracted by Italian opera, and its melodious influence probably has a good deal to do with the fact that his music is in some ways less obviously Russian than that of his compatriots. He made more than one visit to Italy, and this piece, among the gayest and most care-free of all his music, was composed during a trip in 1880, most of which he spent in Rome. Writing from there to Madame von Meek, the good friend who enjoyed so much of his confidence, he says: 'I am working at an Italian Fantasia based on folk-songs. Thanks to the charming themes, some of which I have taken from collections, and others which I have heard in the streets, this work will be effective.'
(to 14.00)

relayed from Daventry

Relayed from the Carlton Restaurant

National Orchestra of Wales
(Cerddorfa Genedlaethol Cymru)
Conducted by Warwick Braithwaite

The story of Mozart's opera, The Magic Flute, is one of which nobody tries to make sense. It is a strange, almost grotesque blend of religious and masonic ritual with two human love stories, one of them of even childish order. The music, however, is so rich in all the qualities which Mozart lovers admire that no one bothers very much about the story.
The Overture begins with an impressive slow section, illustrating the priestcraft of the tale, and there follows a merry theme which the second violins begin, to be imitated in turn by the other instruments. The solemn tones of the beginning are heard again, and thereafter the sprightly tune appears with a tinge of melancholy in its strain, and again proceeds on its hurrying way.

(to 23.00)