Japanese pianist, Etsuko Hirose, had the
power to sustain the demanding virtuoso passages, notably in the persistently
energetic finale, but also captured the lyrical and rhythmic passages with
great sensitivity. (Review by Barbara Trofimczyk)
Programme:
Prokofiev - Classical Symphony
Schumann - Piano Concerto in A Minor
Beethoven - Symphony No 2
Conductor - Daniel Boico
Soloist - Etsuko Hirose (piano)
The final concert of the Early Spring Season last Thursday evening (September 7) in the Playhouse Opera Theatre got off to a good start with the announcement by the Executive and Artistic Director, Bongani Tembe, of future developments for the KZN Philharmonic. Three new players have been appointed with more to come once their necessary visas have been finalised.
While adhoc orchestras are not uncommon,
permanent full-time orchestras are undoubtedly preferable. The players enjoy
security of permanence and belonging, and, getting to know one another, they
perform better as an ensemble.
Prokofiev's Symphony No 1, short and delightfully quirky in its harmonies and rhythms and deliberate 're-invention' of elements of Haydnesque symphonic classicism, made a suitable preparation for the weightier piano concerto that followed.
Schumann's much loved piano concerto is a work of considerable beauty and creative excellence, unique in many ways and a challenge for even the most accomplished of pianists. Japanese pianist, Etsuko Hirose, had the power to sustain the demanding virtuoso passages, notably in the persistently energetic finale, but also captured the lyrical and rhythmic passages with great sensitivity. Pity that the orchestral tuttis were unnecessarily too robust!
Beethoven's 2nd Symphony was a good choice to make for this programme. Less popular than the later well-known symphonies, it is nevertheless an interesting work. Although essentially classical (a la Haydn!), it is more expansive and unmistakably Beethoven in character. The performance was for the most part good, but was unfortunately marred by some rather forceful dynamics, brass and woodwinds frequently overpowering the strings.
The next symphony season of four concerts takes place every Thursday from October 19 to November 17, 2023. – Barbara Trofimczyk
For more information on the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra click on the advert to the top right of this article.
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