WHAT’S ON

Royal Scottish National Orchestra, The Sage Gateshead, 7.30pm, Sunday. Berg’s Violin Concerto performed by Ilya Gringolts. Box office: 0191-443- 4661.

REVIEWS

Shostakovish Nos. 5 and 9 (Naxos 8.572082)

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton Vasily Petrenko give a compelling account of a symphony written after the composer came under the scrutiny of the authorities. The album is coupled with the jaunty Ninth Symphony.

Strauss Symphonia Domestica /Metamorphosen (Naxos 8.554417)

Strauss’ Symphonia Domestica depicts the many sides of married life, including a quarrel and a famous love scene. A fine interpretation from the Staatskapelle Weimar, conducted by Antoni Wit. Tippett String Quartets 3 and 5 (Naxos 8.570497) This completes a brilliant survey of Tippett’s string quartets. Both are infused with Tippett’s abiding fascination with Beethoven.

Purcell: Dido and Aeneas DVD (Opus Arte OA1018D)

Mezzo-soprano Sarah Connolly, who hails from Darlington, gives a triumphant performance in her Royal Opera debut in Wayne McGregor’s staging of Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas. She gives a specially poignant account of Dido’s famous Lament.

Recorded live in April, this DVD is a must have.