FOR their final concert in the Beethoven/Schubert series, the ESO climbed to the highest echelon yet. Two wonderful symphonies, The Unfinished and The Great, were each given splendidly accomplished interpretations.
In Schubert's Symphony No. 8 in B minor (Unfinished), a fervent unison opening by the low strings led to long notes held by the woodwind, before the first statement of the main theme. Dazzling and luxurious instrumentation submitted with admirable flexibility of phrasing and dynamics, prefaced exciting swells of sound before the concluding chords of the Allegro moderato. The Andante con moto, so astutely conceived and sustained, exhibited some fine solos from the woodwind. The strings were stunning, and the symphony progressed with a natural ease in this satisfying near perfect performance.
The superb French horns introduction to Symphony No. 9 in C major (The Great) set the criteria for what followed, culminating in exultant melodious joy, the widest expression of dynamics and a stirring climax.
The young pianist, Frederick Kempf, was the eloquent soloist in Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 in E flat major (Emperor), his magnificent discharge of this monumental music exuded star quality.
The first movement's conversational cadenza between piano and orchestra was gauged superbly, dotted rhythms from the full orchestra alternated with silkily legato horns, then sostenuto cellos were answered by Kempf in a powerful, yet refined manner.
The Adagio was a sublime partnership, the lyrical piano sang so sweetly and the orchestra was marvellously expressive and controlled.
An exciting and whimsical Rondo-Allegro was a podium for Kempf's phenomenal technical ability. His vitality and eagerness, coalesced with William Boughton and his orchestra's sensitive rapport, made this a spine-tingling experience.
William Boughton (conductor) and Michael Bochmann (concert-master) deserve great credit for all the concerts in this completed series. The Brahms cycle of symphonies beginning in October will be anticipated keenly.
JILL HOPKINS
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