In just two hours the Oregon Symphony will play the first of three subscription concerts in Portland that may be a high point of our season thus far. I think Carlos arrived at the hall on Thursday with a burning desire to show that he’s still a relevant and potent force in the musical life of Portland, and it will show in this weekend’s concerts.
The Walton Partita for Orchestra was written as an orchestral tour de force for the Cleveland Orchestra under George Szell, and it is one hell of a difficult piece, but the orchestra is taking it in stride with hardly a hiccup.
Then comes the Bruch Violin Concerto No. 1 played by James Ehnes, who is – unbelievably – making his Oregon Symphony debut in these concerts. He has come to Seattle quite often in the past decade, but this is his first time down South. He’s an amazing violinist – easily playing one of the most polished and musically satisfying performances of the Bruch that I’ve ever heard. It will be thrilling to see him in a performance situation the next three nights.
- Amazon link: James Ehnes – Bruch: Violin Concertos Nos. 1 and 3
Finally, comes Beethoven’s mighty Eroica Symphony. We’re revisiting it with Carlos this week, and his thoughts on this piece have changed since the last time, but his view of the piece is cogent and dramatic at the same time – it will be a highlight of the season, I suspect.
- Oregonian review of Saturday night’s performance.
3 replies on “great concerts ahead”
Tonight’s concert (Saturday) was indeed terrific, all three pieces! Ehnes plays with gorgeous sound and huge integrity. In the Eroica I loved that all the strings played without vibrato, which gave an ear-opening clarity. Tutti bravi!
Certainly agree with Magee. Fine concert all around. The Walton was most enjoyable. The second movement solos were extremely well done. Predictably the Bruch was very well played by Ehnes. Had the good fortune to meet him. What a wonderful person, very down to earth. Although Beethoven is far from my favorite composer these days, I must say that this Eroica held my attention quite well. It seemed packed with wonderful detail. Carlos again demonstrated last night why he is a top of the line conductor and why we are very fortunate to have him in Portland.
I forgot to single out one player. It is easy to take Martin Hebert’s playing for granted. His oboe playing is so rock solid night in and night out. Last night, however, I thought his playing was exceptional by even his high standards.