Mike Batt: Symphony No.1 ‘Ukraine’ – London Symphony Orchestra

The London Symphony Orchestra are on the top of their game as they perform this vibrant new symphony from Mike Batt, the first of several forthcoming classically-driven pieces by the composer. This is the accessible, melodic face of modern classics, motivated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but it can be heard without that connection being made. In turns violent, sweet, brutal and romantic, Batt’s score will resonate with a wide audience. It is not background or minimalistic in nature. It is not academically constructed, but written from the heart by a veteran orchestral composer who has felt the urge to express himself powerfully.