By Mary Fernandez-Sierra
For some Tanglewood fans, sitting in the shelter of the
comfortable shed is the best way to enjoy a concert. There are also those who
long for lovely outdoor landscapes to match the music they hear…and who relish
the feeling of symphonies wafting around them on the wind.
The lush greens lawns of Tanglewood and the trees gracefully
shading everywhere provide such a sensuous setting. One has the choice of the
loveliest seats of all, by setting up one’s own space (often picnic-style) on
the lawn. It’s there that, for many, the music comes alive in the sweet
sunshine and open air.
The Sunday afternoon program on July 19 featured two Mozart
works: Symphony No. 35 in D, K.386 “Haffner;” and Symphony No. 36 in C, K.425
“Linz,” as well as Schumann’s Piano concerto in A minor, Opus 54. Sir Neville
Marriner conducted the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and it was a treat and a joy
to be present.
Paul Lewis, playing the Schumann piano concerto, was the
jewel in this lovely musical setting. Mr. Lewis stated in an interview that the
concerto was like a love-letter from Schumann to his wife Clara. Judging by the
hush as he played, and the tumultuous applause he received afterward, the
listeners on the lawn (as well as those in the shed!) fell in love, too.
This particular concert was a true midsummer idyll; even the
storm clouds, hovering on the outskirts of the Tanglewood skies throughout the
afternoon, politely gave way, and did not intrude with rain until the concert
was over.
Sunday concerts start at 2:30 pm; the gate opens at 12 noon.
Arrive early to discover the best lawn places… and to enjoy the magic of a
Sunday Tanglewood lawn afternoon.
