Bartok, Violin Concerto (slow movement); Maazel, Music for Violin and Orchestra (U.K. Premiere); Kreisler, Gypsy Caprice; Tchaikovsky, Symphony No. 6 in B Minor. London Symphony Orchestra, Lorin Maazel (conductor/violin).

When writing a review one often finds oneself bound by two perspectives: the first a self-indulgent opinion and the second a critique - rationalized by ones own self-professed intellectual supremacy. I personally am largely akin to the former.

The program opened with repertoire for solo violin and orchestra which did not take to my liking. My inexperience of Bartok resulted in a lack of understanding the intricacies of this music devoiding it of being captivating.

Maazel's own composition put me on firmer ground. Its strength and dramatic elements gave the piece a drive, especially with the quality of strong writing which created deep sonorous musical phrases, unlike the brass writing which was an erratic exploration of contemporary technique put into place as an exercise rather than with musical intent.

The Kreisler brought with it a breath of fresh air reinforced by its familiarity. Maazel's arrangement for orchestra lost the flair Kreisler himself intended due to its confinement to space and time. However, Maazel brought justice to it with a natural, earthy and free performance, much like a busker improvising on the streets for pleasure. Flexible use of rubato, a quick vibrato and a variety of sound textures culminated in an excellent performance.

Maazel the violinist has an uncanny ability to instantaneously convert musical thought into physical/technical process, almost sounding instinctive in its progress. I admire his brave choice of repertoire as it is not technically showy but requires tremendous musicianship to carry.

The second half brought Maazel into his own. Words cannot express the exuberance of the performance, carefully planned as to allow every phrase to stretch to its limit keeping the whole symphony within expressive bounds. An impressive performance by a great musician and a truly fine orchestra.

Amit Bhandari, BA in Music/BSc Hon.
Adult Class