Nicknamed the ‘Romantic’ in reference to its themes of medieval chivalry, the Symphony moves from an evocative awakening of nature in its first movement to the majestic affirmations of its conclusion in music of radiant grandeur.

The Violin Concerto by South Korean-born composer Unsuk Chin won the 2004 Grawemeyer Award, contemporary music’s most coveted prize, for its glittering sounds and expressive beauty. German violinist Viviane Hagner, tonight’s soloist, knows the virtuosic solo part better than anyone: she gave the first performance in 2002, and even advised the composer on the score.