22. Elgar's First Symphony

From the Royal Albert Hall, Samira Ahmed introduces an English symphonic masterpiece and a hauntingly beautiful choral work. Herbert Howells's Hymnus Paradisi is a personal memorial, written after the tragic death of his nine-year-old son. Following this intensely emotional work comes a proms favourite, Edward Elgar's First Symphony, the composition that heralded his arrival as a great British symphonist. Performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Chorus and the London Philharmonic Choir, conducted by Martyn Brabbins.