Rachmaninoff and Mahler
SSO
Symphony Hall
Springfield
September 29
By Donna Bailey-Thompson
The opening night gala of Springfield’s Symphony Orchestra offered an evening of contrasts – in apparel, from glittery chic to tailored casual – and in music, either heart-embracing or mentally-challenging. Under the baton of Kevin Rhodes (a gift from the universe to the SSO and to Springfield) the performance demonstrated that the SSO is a musical force worthy of accolades, regardless of how affected (or disaffected) one may be by the program.
Guest artist pianist Ralph Votapek’s interpretation of Rachmaninoff’s beloved Piano Concerto No.2 in C Minor (remember "Full moon and empty arms..."?) filled Symphony Hall with one musical hug after another. His disciplined technique rendered a clean concerto, as opposed to muddied sentimentality, thus enhancing its passion. His cascading notes were waterfalls of crystals. In emotional sync with the orchestra, this full-bodied concerto was an ideal de-stressor that could put shrinks out of business.
Whereas Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.5, performed brilliantly by dedicated musicians, could have passed as the stream of consciousness of an emotionally conflicted mental health client. Much of Mahler’s music is polarizing; some have said that it engenders "fierce adoration to outright dislike." It’s not for sissies. The opening trumpet fanfare heralded that important music was to follow – doleful, tormented, a touch of a waltz, more anguish. Throughout this long symphony, Maestro Rhodes’ cajoled the musicians to honor the details. The final passages shot the audience to its feet and the conductor off the podium who after kissing the hand of the Concertmaster, immediately sprinted into the horns (I think: my sightlines were compromised) where he hugged musicians. Meanwhile, the applause continued, smiles everywhere. Kevin Rhodes and his devoted musicians had delivered a winning concert.
The Valley Advocate’s full page ad in the program declares in white ink on black, "We think the Maestro is the man." They got that right.
Symphony Hall
Springfield
September 29
By Donna Bailey-Thompson
The opening night gala of Springfield’s Symphony Orchestra offered an evening of contrasts – in apparel, from glittery chic to tailored casual – and in music, either heart-embracing or mentally-challenging. Under the baton of Kevin Rhodes (a gift from the universe to the SSO and to Springfield) the performance demonstrated that the SSO is a musical force worthy of accolades, regardless of how affected (or disaffected) one may be by the program.
Guest artist pianist Ralph Votapek’s interpretation of Rachmaninoff’s beloved Piano Concerto No.2 in C Minor (remember "Full moon and empty arms..."?) filled Symphony Hall with one musical hug after another. His disciplined technique rendered a clean concerto, as opposed to muddied sentimentality, thus enhancing its passion. His cascading notes were waterfalls of crystals. In emotional sync with the orchestra, this full-bodied concerto was an ideal de-stressor that could put shrinks out of business.
Whereas Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.5, performed brilliantly by dedicated musicians, could have passed as the stream of consciousness of an emotionally conflicted mental health client. Much of Mahler’s music is polarizing; some have said that it engenders "fierce adoration to outright dislike." It’s not for sissies. The opening trumpet fanfare heralded that important music was to follow – doleful, tormented, a touch of a waltz, more anguish. Throughout this long symphony, Maestro Rhodes’ cajoled the musicians to honor the details. The final passages shot the audience to its feet and the conductor off the podium who after kissing the hand of the Concertmaster, immediately sprinted into the horns (I think: my sightlines were compromised) where he hugged musicians. Meanwhile, the applause continued, smiles everywhere. Kevin Rhodes and his devoted musicians had delivered a winning concert.
The Valley Advocate’s full page ad in the program declares in white ink on black, "We think the Maestro is the man." They got that right.
Labels: greater springfield, mahler, music, rachmaninoff, sso, symphony hall
