Conductor Fabien Gabel came to Houston to conduct the Symphony in a program of pieces by Mendelssohn and Tchaikovsky. In this episode, he gives a primer on Mendelssohn, talks about what a “Fingal’s Cave” is, and gives the world’s first audible eye roll at the use of the term “Suicide Symphony” (re: Tchaikovsky’s Pathetique). Also discussed: the difference between love and obsession with regard to Mexican food.

Music in this episode:

• Mendelssohn, The Hebrides, Op. 26 “Fingal’s Cave,” Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra
• Mendelssohn, Piano Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Rudolf Serkin
• Tchaikovsky, Symphony No. 6 in B Minor Op. 74, TH.30 (Pathetique), Czech Philharmonic 

Audio production by Todd “Todd’s Cave” Hulslander with Indiana Jones-ing by Dacia Clay and assistance from Mark DiClaudio.