City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), Baiba Skride, Edward Gardner

Don’t be put off by the name! The Richard Strauss who wrote Death and Transfiguration was a young genius in a hurry, with musical ambitions that were larger than life itself. It’s a spectacular way to begin a concert that stars a real Birmingham favourite, the fabulous Baiba Skride, in Prokofiev’s zingy concerto, and ends with Sibelius’s mighty symphonic hymn to freedom – and a melody you’ll never forget.

CBSO+ 2 May, 1pm: Writer and broadcaster Stephen Johnson discusses Sibelius’ magnificent and highly emotional Second Symphony.