This PGSO concert was assembled and brought about by popular demand. The audience participated by voting in advance for favourite selections in each of three categories: an overture, a concerto and a symphony. The winners emerged as two Mozart pieces and a Haydn symphony.
Beginning with Mozart's Overture to The Marriage of Figaro, the audience thrilled to the stirring, celebratory sound. Its purposeful cadence sounded especially profound with fluctuations in volume to create dramatic feeling. The music has such popular appeal, even those who don't normally gravitate towards opera know and enjoy the familiar sound.
The Clarinet Concerto in A Major K. 622 was the perfect opportunity to showcase the instrument and the superb musical talent of Simon Cole. This is an example of hearing orchestra and soloist enter into a musical conversation. Played in three movements, the music seems familiar by dint of its survival since 1791 and because of its association with movies like Out of Africa and, more recently, The King's Speech. Understandably popular, this pretty, appealing music affords an opportunity for the clarinet to stand out and be truly appreciated for its dulcet tones. Particularly during the adagio, there was a reassuring sense of serenity in the notes. The sweet clarinet sound led the orchestra through the movement. The rhythmic repetitions and slow, certain expression felt as comforting as prayer. By the third movement, the music stepped away and resumed lively progression.
Following intermission, conductor Les Dala took time to recognize three physicians who have been longtime supporters and players: Dr. Don Bond (flute), Dr. David Dahlstrom (cello) and Dr. Carolyn McGhee (viola). He invited them to the front of the stage to receive acknowledgement in the form of applause and a bottle of tipple (an upgrade from posies, to be sure)!
Acknowledging Haydn as the "Father of the Symphony," Dala informed the audience that this symphony was nicknamed "the Oxford symphony" because it was played on the occasion of the composer's honorary degree in 1791. The four movements began with the spirited adagio and then into the adagio with a softer and more dreamlike mood. Playing softly, the orchestra brought gentle sound. During the third movement, the menuetto reflected the elegance and measured rhythm associated with a formal ballroom. The quickened pace during presto, the final movement, delivered interesting pauses and fluctuations in volume. It had a climactic finish.
The next symphony performance happens Saturday April 9th at Vanier Hall. Fiddler Daniel Lapp will be featured as the guest soloist. Tickets at 250-562-0800.
Contributed by Valerie Giles
16 March 2011
