Born in France and based there, Swiss Arthur Honegger was one of the most famous composers of the 20th century, a member of Les Six (French Six). His works are characterised by a strict polyphonic development of musical themes and a strong rhythmic style. His symphonic music is dramatic, features expressive melodies.

The symphonic composition Pacific 231, composed in 1923, is one of Honegger’s best- known and most popular works. At the time it caused a real revolution – the composer gave his work the title of a steam locomotive model. “I have always loved locomotives passionately. For me they are living creatures and I love them as others love women or horses… I was not attempting to imitate the literal sounds of a steam locomotive, but rather tried to enjoy and recreate its fast movement,” said the composer. Honegger left the following description of the work in the score: “The quiet breathing of the machine at rest, its effort in starting, then the gathering speed, the progress from mood to mood, as a 300-ton train hurtles through the dark night, racing 120 miles an hour.”

Honegger’s dynamic and innovative symphonic movement is performed by the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra conducted by Vilmantas Kaliūnas.