In this second episode, host Davina Clarke takes us on a journey through the classical and romantic periods. She discusses the evolution of the orchestra and its instruments, the development of classical opera and also touches on Shostakovich and his early life as a film composer in Russia.

Musical performances include:

Gluck, 'Dance of the Blessed Spirits'

Massenet, 'Meditation' from Thais

Shostakovich, 'Romance' from The Gadfly