Beethoven, known for ‘serious’ music such as his symphonies, sonatas, string quartets, had a surprising other side! In 1806, the Edinburgh-based music publisher George Thomson wrote to Beethoven (who lived in Vienna) and asked him if he would make some arrangements of Scottish folksongs. Over the next ten years Beethoven composed no less that 179 (!) folksong arrangements for Thomson, and there is ample evidence that the composer enjoyed carrying out this work. The melodies sent by Thomson included songs of Schottish, Welsh and Irish songs. So this morning we all imagine ourselves with friend Ludwig in an Irish pub!

Brahms’s String Quintet No 2 Op 111 is a breathtaking piece, almost orchestral in conception, creating the effect of far more than five instruments. The soaring, optimistic opening is one of the great moments in chamber music: upper strings, enriched with the addition of a second viola, shimmer and quiver, while the cello utters a plunging, jumping melody. This mood of excitement continues throughout the piece, with magnificent, lyrical tunes and playful interactions between the instruments. A piece that seems to be embracing life in all her beauty!