Varied program packs a real punch

FAURE REQUIEM Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra Marko Letonja, conductor TSO Chorus June Tyzack, chorusmaster Valda Wilson, soprano James Clayton, baritone Pamela Rabe, actress Federation Concert Hall, Hobart August 4

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program featured two major works plus a lastminute inclusion, Masques and Bergamasques Opus 112, showcasing Faure’s orchestration skills.

Composer Melody Eotvos was present for the world premiere of her Ruler of the Hive for orchestra and voice, commissioned by the TSO. This fast-paced, tuneful piece explores varied rhythmic patterns and blends of orchestral colour.

Five strong female characters from Shakespeare’s plays were represented in monologues given by actress Pamela Rabe. They were audible alongside the music, but a small amount of sibilance detracted in parts.

Like Faure, Eotvos has reworked her composition several times. Just shy of 30 minutes was ample to convey its imagery.

Faure’s Requiem Opus 48 achieved overall unity due to Letonja’s treatment of contrasting movements. Restraint in Introit and Kyrie improved organ effects.

Offertorium enjoyed wellphrased tones from lower registers of the chorus, continuing through baritone Jame Clayton’s entry at Hostias, his rich timbre complemented by the string section and chorus, and later in Libera Me.

Soprano Valda Wilson’s accurate projection and control expressed both serenity and warmth in Pie Jesu.

The full chorus gave a superb delivery of Agnus Dei, its fervent intensity always controlled.

Unusually, Wilson delivered the soprano chorus line as a second solo in In Paradisum to conclude the well-received work.

— ELIZABETH RUTHVEN