It can be easy to forget that even creative giants throughout history experienced writer’s block. After the premiere of his first symphony, Sergei Rachmaninov suffered a crisis of confidence, which spiralled into a period of depression. The performance was disparaged by critics and audiences alike; an under-rehearsed orchestra and a sloppy, reportedly drunk conductor certainly didn’t help.

Three years went by and Rachmaninov still felt unable to compose. Finally, he sought treatment from Dr Nikolai Dahl, a psychiatrist who specialised in hypnosis therapy. After months of daily sessions, the dark cloud over his inspiration lifted and Rachmaninov entered a period of creative productivity. Public acclaim came with the premiere of his second piano concerto. This success was followed by two operas, a cello sonata, and a full schedule as the resident conductor of the Imperial Opera at the Bolshoi Theatre, which kept him busy.

Lawrence Renes conducting Rachmaninov Symphony No 2, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Photo © Nico Keenan

Despite this, Rachmaninov experienced trepidation over writing another symphony, working fastidiously on drafts over the summers of 1906 and 1907. His perfectionism paid off as his Symphony No 2 premiered to...