Thomas Sondergard's opening concert with the BBC NationalOrchestra of Wales, at which Jean Sibelius was the highlight,was hailed a triumph by audiences and press alike andmarked a new era for the orchestra. Building on this triumphant debut the 2013 BBC Proms sawSondergard and a reinvigorated BBC NOW win over thecritics with their charismatic performance and formidableinterpretations. With their nationalist themes Symphonies 2& 7 were perfect repertoire for Sondergard and his orchestrato make their symphonic recording debut. Sibelius's Second Symphony remains one of the greatFinnish composer's most popular works. The Seventh Symphony is notable for being a onemovementsymphony and is completely original in form,subtle in it's handling of tempi, individual in it's treatmentof key and is considered Sibelius' most remarkablecompositional achievement. 'At the end of his first season as principal conductor,Sondergard showed just what a rapport he already has withthe BBC National Orchestra of Wales.' (The Guardian)