Montreal Symphony Orchestra
Sudbin, Rachmaninov, Van Alphen: bright feast for the senses
BY XAVIER PROULX ON JANUARY 11, 2018 MUSIC / OPERA
Montreal music lovers can boast of having witnessed one of the most brilliant feats of their symphony orchestra, which delivered a performance of rare elegance on Tuesday night.
The program, which honors the great Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninov for the entire concert, saw Yevgeny Sudbin, one of the most eminent pianists of his generation, and artist-in- residence of the OSM in this beginning of the year. It was also an opportunity to see Montreal pianist Philip Chiu whose radiant performance was highly applauded. Let us not forget the charismatic presence of conductor Conrad Van Alphen, who breathed an impressive breath of fresh air into this truly symphonic marathon dedicated to the greatest masterpieces of the Russian repertoire.
” Magic ”
…. What struck, too, was the prodigious crystalline sonorities that the guest conductor Conrad Van Alphen managed to eradicate from his orchestra. The second theme, romantic, was pure happiness, while the section of clarinets and flutes, perfectly limpid, resonated in the utmost perfection.
As for the Symphony No. 2 in E minor Op.27, the work is colossal …
However, despite the very long duration of this concert, the friendly conductor Van Alphen took the precaution of always allowing the orchestra to express its personality and creativity, giving the sound of these works a kind of fluid and flowing timelessness of virtuosity.
The lucky ones who would like to attend this magnificent moment will be able to hear again on January 13th. It’s a safe bet that the triumph will be at the rendezvous!
Pieces played:
Rachmaninov, Elegiac Trio No. 1 for Piano, Violin and Cello
Rachmaninov, Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, op. 18 Rachmaninov, Symphony No. 2 in E minor, op.
