SIR Simon Rattle, the renowned soprano Cecilia Bartoli and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment - it's players fine exponents of period instruments - were the international line-up of musicians assembled for this magnificent gala.
In wonderful celebratory fashion, Mozart and Haydn were the composers chosen to extol this joyous occasion.
Sir Simon Rattle drew sounds of incredible beauty from the orchestra in Symphonies 39 and 40 of Mozart. Subtle variations of dynamics and perspicacious insight of interpretation were elating.
Cecilia Bartoli - appearing with Rattle for the first time in this country - sang arias by Haydn and Mozart. Her amazing vocal range from intense depths to dream-like heights, and her extraordinary expertise - pure lyricism, astounding coloratura, high drama, inate sense of humour, and an all-pervading musicianship - were superlative.
The privileged capacity audience were enraptured giving Sir Simon Rattle, Cecilia Bartoli and the orchestra a standing ovation, amid cheering and tumultuous applause. Several encores gratified.
JILL HOPKINS
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