The rhapsodical offerings of this concert are highly representative of twentieth-century mainstream American and English music. Gershwin and Copland typify the energy and vigour of the New World, whilst Vaughan-Williams and Arnold encompass the more far-sighted cultural vision of the Old, notwithstanding Arnold’s reference to modernism and innovation. These works display a distinctiveness of national styles that provides excellent points of comparison between the two cultures. Meanwhile, Prokofiev’s first piano concerto, more than ably carries the banner of the third great powerhouse of twentieth century music – Russia.