Their recording debut, Symphonies 2 & 7, revealed Søndergård to have a profound understanding of the great Finnish composer. Sibelius has been a major feature of Søndergård's relationship with the BBC NOW since their debut eight years ago; their widely acclaimed Proms performance of the symphonies was a highlight.Symphony No. 1 combines the best of Russian romantic orchestration and melodic magic with a distinctive Nordic character and wonderful contrasts of texture and colour.

In the Sixth, Søndergård's detailed reading highlights the many felicitous touches in Sibelius' writing and conjures heavenly tones from the strings in the closing bars. This recording will cement their partnership as one of the great new Sibelius team