Performer: Alina Pogostkina

Anna Maria della Pietà may not be the most celebrated violinists in history, but she inspired Antonio Vivaldi to write some of his finest concertos, two of which were heard in this tribute to three of the Red Priest's muses. 

Alina Pogostkina and the Belgrade Philharmonic strings shone in Peteris Vasks' atmospheric Distant Light while Fabrice Bollon entertained with Shostakovich's most exuberant symphony.

A dream programme of works by Strauss, Berg and Sibelius, matched by performances from Sakari Oramo, Alina Pogostkina and the BBC Symphony Orchestra that really hit the sweet spot.

Although Beethoven was none too fond of despots, self-proclaimed emperors, or religious intuitions, one can image his approbation for Justinian’s stupendous Hagia Eirene basilica as a perfect venue for his music. 

A satisfying programme of familiar and unfamiliar works by the BBC Philarhomic under its Principal Guest Conductor. 

Buribayev and NSO deliver a powerful Mahler 4 while Ailish Tynan sings of the heavenly delights, while Alina Pogostkina dishes up outstanding Mendelssohn.