In a letter to Willem Mengelberg, Mahler said “My Sixth seems to be yet another hard nut” but it’s one that conductor Vladimir Jurowski intends to crack. Nicknamed the Tragic, the almost nihilistic ending of Symphony Number 6 is an emotive and murky picture of the human soul. Jurowski’s dynamic presence has made him a sought-after conductor and James MacMillan performs his new viola concerto. Seating allocated on arrival. Latecomers may not be admitted. Free pre-concert event, 6:15pm-6:45pm in the Royal Festival Hall.