Tonight we play the Tenth Symphony by Russian giant Dimitri Shostakovich. This brooding piece, full of fear, violence and chilling string work is based on Stalin's reign of terror, under which the composer himself was exiled. The steamrolling fortissimo and exuberant, dance-like ending are in more than capable hands with returning conductor Daniel Raiskin.

Before Raiskin brings the Concertzaal to a boiling point, the Residentie Orkest performs - very characteristically - more unfamiliar work. Scottish composer James Macmillan's contemporary spiritual Larghetto , based on Psalm 51, transcends misery and works grandly toward a hopeful future. This is followed by the Dutch premiere of Double Concerto, a work by Finnish composer Kalevi Aho. Here, distinguished soloists Bram van Sambeek and our own Dorian Cooke lead the way on bassoon. An evening full of emotion, turmoil and guts.