Herts Advertiser critic, Geoff Ward reviewing SASO’s May 9th concert writes that the orchestra has “improved immeasurably under their dynamic conductor, Bjorn Bantock”
(photo: Kaupo Kikkas)
“The concert began with the popular Karelia Suite, which was Sibelius’s first commission for nationalist music. This was a very satisfying performance, especially by the brass section. There was a nice cor anglais solo by Mike Brien in the Ballade movement.”
“Pianist Robert Thompson gave an extremely competent performance, with deft touch in the soft filigree sections and a skilful rendition of the concluding cadenza of the first movement and the muscular end to the final allegro movement. The orchestra provided excellent back-up, and the overall blend was good.”
In Nielsen Symphony No 3: “The overall ensemble of the orchestra was very good for what is a colossal work, requiring great energy from all performers. “