Rachmaninov Remembering Russia review at Colston Hall in Bristol
Posted on: 2015-02-08
Our rating:
Pieces of emotional intensity and vibrant instrumental complexity by three genius composers were sounded out with the usual flourishes, gutsiness, confidence and style now synonymous with this world-class orchestra.
You always know you're in for a rollicking good concert whenever the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra's in town. Their programmes are always inspiring and galvanizing and their musicianship is consistently impeccable. Their Rachmaninov: Remembering Russia concert at the Colston Hall was another barnstorming orchestral romp of an evening, brimming with contrasts of exquisite lyricism, bone-shaking bombast and textured performances.
Sibelius' Spring Song kicked off the evening. Like many of Liszt, Strauss and Saint-Saens pieces, it took the form of a tone poem and, dating from 1894, was one of his earliest. Beginning with a simple heart-wrenching and lyrically wistful main theme, the momentum built and the volume incrementally increased to a thundering crescendo before settling back into the theme and a final fortissimo cadence. Elegiac, haunting and sublimely romantic, it was a sensational, moving opener.
Grieg's Piano Concerto in A minor showcased the speedily dextrous, nimble finger of pianist Alessandro Taverna, who blended with the orchestra's nuanced dynamics to create tender piano statements one moment, then a furiously energetic blitzkrieg of dazzling finger work the next. It was a stunning performance, faultlessly articulated by orchestra and pianist, and a mesmerising display of Taverna's often heart-thumping, gobsmacking pianistic expertise.
One interval, 20 minutes and an ice cream later, the BSO returned to the stage for a second half comprising of Rachmaninov's Symphonic Dances. Composed during the last few years of his life, its themes of fantasy and mystery are enhanced by epic musical statements and huge, occasionally intriguing, orchestration including saxophone, prominent piano and muted brass. A powerful, fierce first movement was succeeded by a seductive and sinister second movement waltz before a rhythmically complex, percussion pounding final section concluded in a flurry of raging brass, crashing cymbals and thundering gong.
Once again, the BSO brought another sensational concert to the Colston Hall. Pieces of emotional intensity and vibrant instrumental complexity by three genius composers were sounded out with the usual flourishes, gutsiness, confidence and style now synonymous with this world-class orchestra.
5/5
Reviewed by Jamie Caddick for 365Bristol - the leading events and entertainment website for Bristol.
Article by:
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.
