London Symphony Orchestra/François-Xavier Roth

‘This is how Fate knocks at the door!’ declared Beethoven, but if those first electrifying notes are all you know of his Fifth Symphony, you’re in for a thrilling discovery. It’s the only possible way to follow the fabulous, fantastical music of György Ligeti – a composer who took the orchestra, turned it upside down, and crafted astonishing new sounds from what fell out.  

In other words, it’s the music of a true original – perfect for a conductor like François-Xavier Roth, who hears every note as if it’s newly minted. And even more perfect for explorer, storyteller and one-woman musical phenomenon Patricia Kopatchinskaja. Not many violinists acquire a cult following but when you hear ‘PatKop’ play, you’ll understand why she’s the exception that proves the rule.  

‘For me, the whole world is made of sound’ – Patricia Kopatchinskaja