Beethoven's Ninth Symphony Turns 200: A Night of Classical & TV Treats
Tonight marks the bicentenary of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, arguably the most renowned piece of classical music. To celebrate this momentous occasion, BBC Four presents a special performance by the Aurora Orchestra, conducted by Nicholas Collon. The concert features a stellar cast of soloists including Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha, Marta Fontanals-Simmons, Brenden Gunnell, and Christopher Purves, with the National Youth Choir of Great Britain joining for the rousing final movement.
For those seeking a different kind of musical journey, BBC One offers "Our Lives: The Seal Whisperer". This charming documentary follows GP Ben Burville as he dives into the icy waters of the North Sea, encountering the captivating seals that inhabit the Farne Islands. Burville shares his unique connection with these marine creatures and credits their presence, along with the natural world, with improving his mental well-being.
Channel 5 continues its real-life drama series with "Rescue 999: Seconds to Save a Life", showcasing the bravery and skill of emergency responders in challenging environments. From a rocky ravine rescue in the Peak District to a lifeboat mission in the Solent and a helicopter crew responding to a motorbike crash, the episode highlights the quick thinking and dedication required to save lives.
Gardeners' World, a perennial favourite on BBC Two, offers a glimpse into the future with Monty Don. While autumn is approaching, his sights are already set on spring, busy planting daffodil bulbs. He also tackles the unwelcome presence of bindweed, a gardener's bane. Meanwhile, Frances Tophill visits pioneering horticulturist Josh Sparkes in Devon, exploring innovative approaches to gardening.
Channel 5 takes viewers to a flight of terror in "Terror at 30,000 Feet", recounting the harrowing experience of a Birmingham-to-Malaga flight in 1990. The documentary uses dramatic reconstructions and first-hand accounts to depict the terrifying moment when the captain was partially sucked out of the cockpit window.
For a dose of laughter, BBC Three presents another double bill of "The Golden Cobra", the animated comedy set in Ebbw Vale's worst curry house. The first episode features Basil's ambition to create a TV advert, which, when finally aired, delivers on its promise of absurdity. The second episode delves into Nick's embarrassing past as a volatile mixed martial arts enthusiast.
Film Choice:
Sky Cinema Premiere features "Madame Web", the latest Spider-verse film. Despite negative buzz surrounding its lead actor, Dakota Johnson, the film offers a refreshing change from typical superhero fare. The origin story of Cassandra Webb, a paramedic with the ability to see the future, and three teenage girls destined to become spider-women, feels grounded in everyday urban life, with smaller-scale action and a focus on character development.
Live Sport:
Channel 4 broadcasts Day Two of the Paralympics Paris 2024, featuring first heats in para rowing and para athletics. Later, BBC Two presents the Athletics: Diamond League Rome, the Golden Gala Pietro Mennea at Stadio Olimpico.
