BBC Four is to broadcast four one-hour documentaries exploring the role of the symphony in the modern world. 'Symphony', presented by Simon Russell Beale, charts the development of the form over the past three centuries and ‘the surprising way in which it has shaped our history and identity’.

The four programmes – Genesis & Genius, Beethoven & Beyond, New Nations & New Worlds and Revolution & Rebirth – feature specially recorded music performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment conducted by Sir Mark Elder, who also provides commentary and analysis.

‘The Symphony captures the whole universe of emotion and is unique in its complexity and brilliance,’ said BBC Four controller Richard Klein. ‘Following a really successful Proms season, we will continue our commitment to classical music through presenting a very distinctive BBC Four perspective of "Symphony".’

The documentaries will be broadcast weekly, staring tonight at 9pm GMT.