MELODIC Magic, the BSO’s title for this first concert under its new collaboration with Classic FM, is spot on.

Jamie Crick, replete with electronic notepad-bringing a touch of 21st century modernity to what was a lovely, old-fashioned concert- provided the informative introductions.

Mozart, among the greatest masters of melody, clearly understood the sound-world of the basset clarinet, used here to gorgeous effect by soloist Timothy Orpen.

The Clarinet Concerto is among the best-loved and Orpen’s performance was the epitome of suave, lucidity; producing a rich lower register and distinctive tonal values.

Where the first movement was cheerfully flowing, the contrasting Adagio brought a liquid beauty to its romantic core.

His articulate finale engaged the operatic character and witty infusions with a real sense of joy.

The BSO, now in its 120th year, was formed just a few months prior to the untimely death of Tchaikovsky on 6th November 1893.

Yet his music is now in the premier league; and the Symphony No4, performed here under Maxime Tortelier, is among the finest.

With tunes-a-plenty and the figure of fate set to pitch minor-key despondency, it’s a major miracle of genius.

Tortelier had the measure of the underlying pathos yet readily managed to convey each turn of phrase and melody with appropriate, expressive demeanour and raw passion.

Sibelius’s heart-warming lyricism, heard in his Karelia Suite (first performed 120 years ago), was suitably drawn with a magical atmosphere, marvellous tonal harmony from the strings in the Ballade along with some handsomely pointed and well-sprung rhythms in the buoyant march.