Donald Macleod traces Bruckner's extended musical apprenticeship, from his father's organ bench in the village church to the creation of his First Symphony nearly 40 years later. Show more

Donald Macleod explains how overwork and frustration were leading Bruckner towards a breakdown. However, his life was about to turn a corner and take him to Vienna. Show more

Donald Macleod explains why Bruckner's elation following the success of his Symphony No 7 was short-lived. His next was rejected as 'bewildering'. Show more

Donald Macleod considers how biographers have struggled to reconcile what we know of Bruckner the man with the spirit of his music. Show more

Donald Macleod explains why Bruckner's radical and visionary approach to writing symphonies was not well received in the composer's home of Vienna. Show more