Asher Fisch leads symphony in melodic program

Vivid, musical vignettes were the order of the evening at the Milwaukee Symphony’s Saturday performance at the Marcus Center’s Uihlein Hall.

Guest conductor Asher Fisch led the orchestra in performances of Lucas Foss’ nostalgic, melodic “Three American Pieces,” Benjamin Britten’s evocative “Four Sea Interludes,” and Gustav Mahler’s achingly beautiful “Das Lied von der Erde” (“The Song of the Earth”).

The program opened with the Foss, which is just what its title advertises: three bits of musical Americana. Its wonderfully melodic writing contrasts expressively direct lines and vigorous, technical passages for both violin and orchestra.

Violinist Bella Hristova gave the Foss a captivating performance, bringing a pure, ringing sound and uncluttered style to melodic passages and handling fast, technical sections with grace, ease, and a sense of country fiddle fun. Fisch and the orchestra matched and supported her every musical turn.

With the Britten, Fisch and the orchestra turned to an intense, cinematic style of playing.

They used broad dynamic contrasts and powerful musical momentum to help turn the piece’s four movements into distinct, visceral images of the sea.

The evening ended with a deeply stirring performance of the Mahler that won a long, cheering, standing ovation.

Mezzo-soprano Michelle DeYoung gave a commanding performance, bringing particular emotional depth to the piece’s final “Der Abschied” (“The Farewell”) movement, and a big, warm sound and richly expressive interpretation to the entire work.

Tenor Stuart Skelton absolutely inhabited Mahler’s composition, singing with a big, robust, enveloping sound, plenty of theatrical character, and constant precision and presence across his dynamic range.

Fisch and the MSO gave a beautifully crafted, richly textured performance, full of finely honed ensemble playing and some brilliantly played solo passages.