Last night was the first night of our latest classical subscription program (repeats on Monday night). Rather than give a blow-by-blow, I’ll give my shout-outs for my heroes of the evening.
Baiba Skride, our violin soloist, played the holy bejesus out of the Khatchaturian Violin Concerto. She is just an incredible violin playing machine, but with huge heart as well. She just gave an amazingly wild, yet controlled, performance from beginning to end. Principal bassoon Carin Miller played her solo at the opening of the second movement with a great, singing sound.
Our Associate principal hornist Joseph Berger did some amazing high-wire horn playing in Haydn’s Symphony No. 39 – total control, perfectly in tune, and not a bobble even hinted at – a virtuoso performance.
In Debussy’s La Mer there were many great contributions. Concertmaster Jun Iwasaki had perfectly executed solos throughout. Acting principal flute Alicia DiDonato Paulsen was on fire all night – her solos in the Debussy were gorgeous. English Hornist Kyle Mustain was incredible as well. Trumpeter Micah Wilkinson played his very difficult and treacherous solo with grace. Principal cellist Nancy Ives played her extended solo beautifully, and the entire cello section played the famous section solo to perfection. Finally, our amazing brass section contributed some awesome climaxes and sounded truly world-class.
I’m sure I missed some highlights – if you’ve got some hollas of your own, just add them in the comment thread!