NSO ends the year on a high

Nelson Symphony Orchestra Nelson School of Music Auditorium, Saturday, November 24

What a splendid concert to end the musical year! As a violinist in the NSO for 34 years, I feel qualified to say that it was the best concert the orchestra has ever presented, for many reasons.

Firstly, the improved acoustics of the auditorium at the new Nelson Centre of Musical Arts. Secondly, the better arrangement of the musicians on the stage. Thirdly, the exciting choice of programme, by conductor Nigel Weeks, which featured every section of the orchestra, both as soloists and in sections.

Young Motueka pianist Louis Lucas Perry played Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini with extraordinary passion and technical confidence. He stunned the audience with his fast, rippling melodies and dramatic expression. After receiving a standing ovation, he gave two encores. This fostering of young local talent also featured in the performance of the Yangjiang Overture by Sidney Barron, the winner of the inaugural Young Composers’ competition.

The second half began with an accomplished performance of Schubert’s lyrical and haunting Unfinished Symphony. Especially beautiful were the contrasting dynamics, the woodwind solos, and the singing French horns. Faure’s Pavane in F Sharp Minor followed, full of romantic feeling and co-ordinated rallentandos. The cello playing was entrancing.

The last two items were stirring marches, featuring every instrument in the orchestra. Tchaikovsky’s Marche Slav brought the brass players to the fore, and was held together rhythmically by lively, dancing timpanist Beth Cuizon, and Robin Le Couteur on cymbals. To finish, Strauss’s Radetzky March persuaded the audience to join in.