The National Symphony Orchestra is delighted that Rimma Sushanskaya, the distinguished violinist and conductor, has accepted a formal role with the orchestra. Critically acclaimed performances and recordings in recent years have developed a synergy, a shared passion, for music making. This is no more apparent than found in their recent recordings of Beethoven's5th Symphony and the two Romances for violin, partnering Mathilde Milwidsky as soloist, and an album of Mozart Symphony No.40 and the Elvira Madigan Piano Concerto No.21 in C with John Lenehan. Sushanskaya has found an energy and vision, giving inspiration for the present and a huge sense of eager anticipation for the future. This album of works by Brahms was recorded during the height of covid restrictions whereby social distancing in studios was a requirement for British orchestras, representing huge challenges for both performers and recording engineers alike. The recording is a tribute to the indefatigable efforts of our conductor, musicians, producer Michael Ponder and sound engineer Adaq Khan and the supportive staff at Henry Wood Hall, all who managed to keep the candle burning for music and musicians when almost all artistic activity fell silent.