Mendelssohn's 'Scottish' Symphony in Building a Library with Katy Hamilton and Andrew McGregor

Available for 29 days

2.10 The Spectator's Chief Classical Music Critic Richard Bratby talks presenter Andrew McGregor through his pick of the week's new releases. 3.00 Building a Library: Dr Katy Hamilton recommends a top recording of Mendelssohn's Third Symphony, known as the 'Scottish'. The sombre opening theme came to him after he visited the chapel in the ruins of Holyrood Abbey in 1829 although his love of the Scottish landscape was also an inspiration for movements in the symphony. Mendelssohn didn't complete the symphony until 1842. Top choice: Chamber Orchestra of Europe Nikolaus Harnoncourt (conductor) Teldec 9031723086 3.50 Record of the Week: Andrew McGregor chooses the recording that has impressed him the most this week.