Amazing concert brings curtain down on series
An outstanding concert by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under Matthias Pintscher brought the 2017/18 orchestral series in Perth Concert Hall to a rewarding end last month.
Already from the first section of Smetana’s Vltava, it was clear that not only is Matthias Pintscher a most able conductor, but he loves the sound of a grand orchestra and wants them to play.
The various and varied sections each had their own atmosphere: the well-phrased big tune full of flow and detail, the polka had rhythmic swing, the moonlight and naiads sensitive clarity and the brass of Vysehrad Castle roundedly impressive.
The same was true of Sarka, third in the Ma Vlast series, the Amazons could have been a touch more vehement, but the passionate music was exactly that and again the dance had verve.
The clarinet, Barry Deacon, in his vocal inflections more than earned his first solo bow of the evening.
Joined by pianist David Kadouch for Chopin’s Piano Concerto No 2 it was apparent just how much music this piece contains.
As soloist David Kadouch had a felicitous touch, at moments individually striking.
The Larghetto started with rich sound, David Kadouchthen musing nicely. Most impressive was the recitative section.
The Finale lacked a little in sparkle, but had good woodwind detailing, particularly the favoured bassoon of Julian Roberts.
To re-apply the witticism: Dvorak wrote three symphonies – numbers 7, 8 and 9. So it was a rare pleasure to hear No 4 in D minor given such a well prepared and excitingly carried out performance.
Affection and delight came from Matthias Pintscher and superb, glowing playing from the BBC Scottish.
The first movement was played Matthias Pintscher leads the orchestra with heroic ardour, the Andante was the gem of the symphony, apart from the lame fugato – Dvorak’s fault.
The swashbuckling Scherzo a delight with its galumphing Trio causing a smile.
The BBC SSO on fantastic form for colour, detail and variety minimised the repetitious Finale.
As in the second themes of every movement, Matthias Pintscher sculpted affectionate excitement, responded to powerfully and in length by the Perth Concert Hall audience.