‘Nobody loves the countryside as much as I do. That is certain; after all, forests, trees and rocks produce the echo that man desires to hear,’ declared Beethoven in a letter from 1810.

-----

Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, nicknamed the ‘Pastoral’, pays a personal tribute to the beauty and power of nature. Though Beethoven often hesitated to associate his music too closely with specific narratives, he made clear programmatic indications for each movement of the Sixth Symphony. This work, described by Beethoven himself as ‘more the expression of feeling than painting,’ reflects his profound emotions and deep connection to the natural world.

Under the inspired direction of conductor Joolz Gale, making his debut with the Brussels Philharmonic, each movement vividly comes to life: from the awakening of the countryside, the gentle murmuring of a brook, to the gathering of people, and the joyful dance of shepherds at the end. In this ode to nature and the idyllic countryside, a storm sweeps through, clearing the air and refreshing the spirit.

This piece stands out for its timeless appeal, offering a serene escape into the tranquil beauty of the countryside, a reprieve from the bustle of everyday life.