An evening of American classics was on offer last weekend in
the latest of the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s current series of concerts at
the Brighton Dome Theatre.
The Orchestra, conducted by Marian Alsop, treated the
audience to captivating performances of Aaron Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common
Man”, Joan Tower’s “Fanfare For The Uncommon Woman”, Copland’s “Piano
Concerto”, George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” and Dvorak’s “Symphony No. 9
From The New World”.
This eclectic and exciting program not only showed off the
talents of a full orchestra, but enabled the talents of other musicians to be
drafted into the fold for the evening- including up to three saxophonists and a
banjo player.
The Piano Concerto, expertly played by Garrick Ohlsson
showed off the simplicity of Copland’s writing, whilst allowing the soloist to
show a laid back style of virtuosity often overlooked for technical prowess and
speed.
The performance of Rhapsody in Blue was enjoyed by all, and
allowed various instrumentalists the scope to show their worth- such as the
iconic clarinet glissando that opens the piece.
The acoustic of the Brighton Dome gave the concert an added
charm as normally indistinct parts leapt out into the foreground. Hearing the
banjo part clearly for the first time was a refreshing change.
Overall, the evening was brilliantly performed by all, with
a fantastic program choice, showing a different side of the orchestra and
contrasted well with the rest of their concert series, performing pieces which
are often overlooked.
9/10
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