Cool way to wind up Family Classics

THE SNOWMAN Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra Elena Schwarz, conductor Ryk Goddard, presenter Lana Kains, vocalist Federation Concert Hall August 24 THIS sold-out concert — the final in the TSO’s Family Classics series for this year — centred on a musical retelling of Raymond Briggs’s popular children’s storybook The Snowman.

Featuring only one short passage for voice, which was capably sung by young soprano Lana Kains, the story was otherwise brought to life by a lively soundtrack of music performed by the orchestra in time with animated visuals projected on to big screens.

Elena Schwarz, assistant conductor of the TSO, tied the various parts of the presentation together admirably.

This piece was complemented by performances of other winter-related compositions, including Leroy Anderson’s joyful Sleigh Ride, an excerpt from RimskyKorsakov’s Snow Maiden, and Prokofiev’s Troika, which featured tight ensemble playing, especially from the strings.

Presenter Ryk Goddard kept the audience’s attention in the breaks between works with his witty banter and informative introductions to the pieces.

Another highlight was hearing the winner of the TSO’s Rising Stars competition, UTAS Conservatorium student Maraika Smit, perform as soloist in the first movement of Mozart’s Horn Concerto No.4. Overall, she gave a sensitive and engaging performance characterised by well-shaped phrases, a good balance with the orchestra, and effective dynamic contrasts.