The major works selected for by the LPO for their final series concert at the Congress Theatre were both written for the ballet.
de Falla’s ‘Three Cornered Hat’ and excerpts from ‘ Romeo and Juliet’ by Sergei Prokovief were designed to accompany dance: their exhilarating rhythms and colourful orchestration would play second fiddle to the action on stage.
But the chance to listen properly without the distraction of dance – to hear the perfection of an orchestra in total command of its forces and occasionally even not to watch the dazzling players but sit and absorb Falla’s sophisticated version of a Spanish flamenco or the muscular power of Prokovief’s astringent harmonies, was a rare treat.
The sharp edges of an anti-romantic Romeo and Juliet were played with astonishing focus and absolute precision: notable were leader Vesselin Gellev and principal cellist Pei-Jee Ng.
A guitar fantasia by Rodrigo made a lyrical contrast with the pretty variations on the gentle waltz melody.
Soloist Xuefei Yang performed with virtuouso sensitivity although perhaps missing a certain bite in dramatic passagework. Jaime Martin led the enormous orchestra, included its assorted castanets and xylophone, with panache, passion and intensity.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article