Concert Reviews
28th February 2008: Malvern St James
Source: Jill Hopkins, Worcester News
The ESO began the new 2008 Season with its first concert in partnership with Malvern St. James in a blend of interesting easy-on-the-ear music.
Michael Bochmann was Concertmaster and he led the musicians first with Fiocco's cheerful L'Anglaise followed by a well-defined, expressive interpretation of Divertimento in D by Mozart.
Peter Adams was the eloquent soloist in Boccherini's Cello Concerto in B flat which included virtuoso cadenzas in the two outer movements and a beautiful lyrical threnody through the second.
Chaconne by Purcell was given a sedate reading of contrasts, and in Vaughan Williams' Fantasia on Greensleeves, a harp added courtesy of David Watkins, we heard that well known melody for the first time during the evening, but later it emerged again as it was tossed around the different strings in Holst's St. Paul's Suite.
In conclusion, two pieces composed by Walton for the film of Henry V, and arrangements of Irish tunes Molly on the Shore, and Carrickfergus, each containing lovely solos and jigging rhythms.
This was a most enjoyable concert, the strings blended well in the acoustic of York Hall, which was an ideal venue, warm and comfortably welcoming - the easy parking a distinct advantage also!