The arrival of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra (BBC SSO) early next month is no doubt the biggest buzz at the ongoing Shenzhen Concert Hall "Listen to the Sound of Spring" music season. And for good reason.
   Founded in 1935 by Scottish composer/conductor Ian Whyte, the BBC SSO is regarded as one of the UK's finest orchestras, with an extensive repertoire ranging from contemporary composition to the great classics, and also from original Scottish works to movie soundtrack recordings. All have been broadcasted exclusively on BBC Radio and Television throughout the years. 
   For its excellent performances the BBC SSO has received numerous honors, including two Gramophone Awards and a Grammy nomination.
   Additionally, the British Royal Philharmonic Society presented the ensemble with its special award for "Best Orchestra" back in 2002. Fine praise, indeed.
   Players on the team are equally outstanding, such as conductor Christoph Konig and chief violinist Nicola Benedetti, both of whom will be in town to play. Konig, from Germany, is a regular guest conductor with a number of prestigious European orchestras. His conduction of many classic operas has also been widely praised on the international circuit. 
   Gifted and charming, Benedetti, the Scottish-Italian violinist, also possesses a rich profile, winning the coveted title of BBC's "Young Musician of the Year" in 2004.
   Together with these two prominent musicians, the BBC SSO will be rendering the works of Elgar (that should please Anglophiles), Sibelius and Mendelssohn when they visit Shenzhen.
　　
   The concert of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra ?will be held on June 6 at the Shenzhen Concert Hall. For tickets, call (0755)82841888.