Cellophony at St Georges in Bristol reviewed on Friday 22nd January 2016

Posted on: 2016-01-24

Our rating:

Breath-taking, bold, dynamic and demonstrating incredible skill and flair, the sight and sound of this unusual grouping of 8 cellos is something that truly needs to be experienced to be believed.


 

Friday 22nd January saw the triumphant return to St George’s of cello ensemble Cellophony - and this came just over a year after their last performance in Bristol. The London based cello octet has continued to develop a reputation for excellence with a strong presence on the European festival scene they have rapidly risen to establish themselves as the leading cello ensemble in the UK. 

Cellophony played at St George's in Bristol on Friday 22 January 2016

Building on a body of work ranging from the traditional repertoire of the cello ensemble to a more diverse range of specially adapted arrangements they have demonstrated their dominance and have become the must see group.

Running at just over 70 minutes with no interval their performance within the glorious and unique setting for St George’s – one of the country’s leading concert halls- was bold, vigorous and enthralling.

The programme began with a specially adapted and spirited rendition of Villes-Lobos’ Bachianas Brasilieras No 1. This intriguing piece - the first in his series of 9 suites - is a seamless fusion of Brazilian folk and popular music with the characteristic stylings of Johann Sebastian Bach. A vivacious and lively, yet at times dark and brooding piece of music this was hauntingly brought to life by the mournful tone of 8 cellos blending together to provide a clear and vibrant sound.

This was followed by a scintillating take on Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, revised to be performed by 8 cellos and a violin, and the group were joined on stage by guest violinist Alexander Sitkovetsky. The best known of Vivaldi’s works, Four Seasons seeks to provide a musical expression of the seasons and takes the listener on a journey through the year.

Cellophony gave a beautiful rendition of this well -loved piece, poignant and moving in parts it was performed with skill and alacrity and a certain degree of theatrics. Alexander Sitkovetsky was sublime, coaxing note after awe-inspiring note from his violin and proving his very real talent, while never taking the limelight from the 8 cellists on stage with him. 

A truly beautiful interpretation from the first, familiar notes of Spring through to the plaintive final sound of Winter, the St George’s audience were captivated. A delightful evening of music played out in an equally delightful setting.

Breath-taking, bold, dynamic and demonstrating incredible skill and flair, the sight and sound of this unusual grouping of 8 cellos is something that truly needs to be experienced to be believed.

4.5/5

Reviewed by Sarah-Jane Howard for 365Bristol



Article by:

James Anderson

Born and raised in the suburbs of Swansea, Jimmy moved to Bristol back in 2004 to attend university. Passionate about live music, sport, science and nature, he can usually be found walking his cocker spaniel Baxter at any number of green spots around the city. Call James on 078 9999 3534 or email Editor@365Bristol.com.