Hans Rott completed just one symphony during his lifetime. Four years before his untimely death, he entered his First Symphony in a conservatoire competition. Given this hidden gem is now loved for its melodic radiance, it’s hard to believe that the composition was met by mocking laughter from the judges.

Despite the rejection, Rott’s teacher Anton Bruckner insisted that the composer was misunderstood, while Gustav Mahler hailed his friend as ‘a musician of genius’. To honour their steadfast belief in Rott’s abilities, the programme showcases Symphonic Prelude by Bruckner and Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen by Mahler. Lieder is sung by an International Festival favourite: Catriona Morison, the mezzo soprano with a ‘voice of many colours’ (The Times).

Jakub Hrůša and the Bamberger Symphoniker’s recent recording of works by Rott, Bruckner and Mahler won Hrůša the 2023 Opus Klassik Conductor of the Year Award.

Buy standard price tickets for all three Bamberger evening concerts at Usher Hall and get 20% off. Excludes concessions and top-price tickets, more details over on Booking Info.

The Bamberger Symphoniker Residency is supported by James and Morag Anderson with additional support from Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany