Prokofiev: Symphony Nos. 1 & 5

Thomas Søndergård's sophomore album as Music Director marks his first symphonic recording with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

Søndergård conducts an all-Prokofiev programme juxtaposing two contrasting symphonies: Symphony No. 1 in D major 'Classical' and Symphony No. 5 in B flat major.

• Prokofiev delights in paying homage to Haydn in his neo-classical masterpiece; its characterful melodies, freshness and overall joie de vivre have established Symphony No. 1 as enduringly popular.

In contrast the Fifth Symphony was forged in the flames of war, and dedicated, Prokofiev said, to 'the greatness of the human spirit'.

• Following a concert performance The Herald commented, 'This was the conductor at his most energetic and impassioned, and it drew a corresponding performance from the orchestra.'

Prokofiev has been a key focus for Søndergård since 2016 and the conductor has announced plans to complete a symphonic cycle over four seasons with his orchestra.