The Ballarat Symphony Orchestra, under their new conductor Mark Shiell, performed a concert at the Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts on Sunday which pointed to a very bright future. The energy and enthusiasm of the musicians was translated into excellent music making in a program of mostly well-known classics and one premiere performance.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Two Slavonic Dances of Dvorak, Sibelius' "Finlandia", the first movement of Beethoven's fifth symphony and the "William Tell" overture of Rossini guaranteed that all sections of the orchestra would have the opportunity to shine. Indeed the quality was maintained throughout, with secure intonation and precision in rhythm. Mark Shiell has inspired a disciplined effort from all sections.
The selection of exciting young soloists also points to a new direction for the orchestra. Soprano Julie O'Connor's program included a mature performance of Puccini's "O Mio Babbino Caro" and Dvorak's "Song to the Moon" from Rusalka. Her use of the microphone was the only hint of a lack of experience in grand opera.
Violinists Elise Wright's and Jonathon Yates' contribution in the first movement of Bach's Double Violin Concerto displayed excellent ensemble work and a clear understanding of the style. The gracefulness and sense of purpose were maintained by both performers. Jessie Regan gave a wonderfully lyrical reading of the second movement of Bruch's popular violin concerto. The phrases were perfectly shaped as the drama unfolded.
The new composition was the first movement of Hannah Zreikat's piano concerto. This sparkling work, with regular metre changes and interesting use of the high woodwinds, was delivered with style by soloist Thomas Williams, whose secure technique gave a feeling of relaxed control over the material, allowing the dialogue between piano and orchestra to develop naturally. His refined touch highlighted the lyricism of the middle section before the work regained momentum in the drive to its conclusion.