This series, featuring Sir André Previn and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, tells the story of the symphony. In each programme, Previn introduces a performance of a major symphonic work. He sets the music to be performed in the context of its composer’s life and work, explaining the way in which it contributed to the development of the symphonic form. His comments are illustrated by the orchestra, who play a variety of supporting extracts. The music featured in the series is Haydn’s Symphony No. 87, Mozart’s Symphony No. 39, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 (extracts) and Symphony No. 7, Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique, Brahms’ Symphony No. 4, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 (Pathetique), and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5. Six parts à 88′.
Shirley Verrett
The cameras followed Shirley Verrett during the course of a year to capture a glimpse into the life of one of opera’s great stars. She is seen rehearsing with Domingo, performing at top opera houses in roles she has made her own – Iphigénie, Tosca, Dalila, Carmen – and talking on subjects ranging from her religious upbringing and experiences of being black, to her health, diet, style and family. She performs blues and gospel numbers specially for the programme.