Springfield Symphony, Springfield, MA
February 10, 2018
by Shera Cohen
Many years ago, when eager to find a dance critic for Bravo
Newspaper, two prominent dancers told me, “Just write the review yourself.” I
didn’t feel comfortable doing what they suggested, considering that my
knowledge of dance is somewhat limited to only what I like. “That’s exactly
what we are saying,” repeated the dancers. “Say what you like, and you have a
review.”
Classical music, for me, falls in the similar category of
not knowing the subject matter very well. Admittedly, my understanding of music
far exceeds that of dance. Yet, I can’t quite define words like fortissimo, and
others with Latin roots. That said, this “review” is one for people who like,
even love, music but are by no means an expert. I am guessing that this is a
large group who made up the near-full house at Symphony Hall last evening.
 |
| Caroline Goulding |
My guess that the primary reason for the near-full house at
Symphony Hall was the performance of Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons.” Many of us
have heard segments of this popular classical music. However, the SSO and solo
violinist Caroline Goulding had their work cut out for them, playing all four
movements in full. Goulding stood for the program, instrument in hand, looking
at her sheet music on the stand in front of her, literally putting her entire
body into the concert. This petite young woman brought each season to her
audience with unexpected power.
As much as Vivaldi was the “draw,” Beethoven’s Symphony No.
7, Op. 92 was so mesmerizing that, frankly, I forgot to take my usual review
notes. Occasionally closing my eyes brought the piece even closer to my soul. I
was unfamiliar with this particular Beethoven work. Yes, I liked it. I loved
it.
Some other notes on my symphony experience…
Venue – Symphony Hall is the acoustically and aesthetically
premiere venue in the Pioneer Valley. If you’ve never visited, take a short
walk-about at an SSO concert, especially to the second floor Mahogany Room.
Text Messages – A new element for some audience members to
enhance their symphony experience are tidbits of information displayed on
Iphones simultaneous with the notes performed on the stage. Not being
technologically savvy, I did not participate, but many did.
Program Book – It’s chockfull of information on the
selections, soloists, conductor, and composers. No worries, a “Jeopardy” quiz will
not follow. However, given some insight adds to the enjoyment and understanding
of the classical music.
Apparel – Remember the years when it was mandatory to wear
your best duds to the symphony and similar cultural happenings? While I think
it’s lovely to dress up to add a bit of elegance to your evening, the dress
code has changed. I don’t
recommend cut-off holes in the knees jeans, but just about anything comfortable
goes.
Advice to the novice classical music listeners – several SSO
concerts remain in its 2017/18 season. Check their website, then check them out.
