Music / Reviews
Review: Bristol Classical Players, St George’s – ‘This is an orchestra that can do it all’
The reflection that classical music has, in its scope and in its force, perhaps a greater capacity to move than any other artistic form was very much with me when Bristol Classical Players garlanded the walls of St George’s with a searing tribute to British composition.
Suffragette Ethel Smyth’s extraordinary overture to her Cornish opera The Wreckers serves to open the evening.
Brass and string weave like shade and sun through the opening theme, with each underscoring the potency of the other. This textural, dynamic and colourful work is perfected by Smyth’s rich wind writing.
Walton’s Viola Concerto follows, and is exquisitely offered by Rebecca Chambers, Principal Viola of the English National Opera.
Originally written for British viola supremo Lionel Tetris (who, incidentally, denounced the work as ‘too modern’ on first hearing!), this masterpiece in the expression of longing was executed with enormous soul and poignancy.
Vaughan Williams’ Tallis Fantasia comes next, with the full orchestra giving way to strings alone. Here again, Bristol Classical Players assert themselves as sublime musicians.
The haunting work is delivered tastefully and stylishly.
The concert concludes with Elgar’s Enigma Variations, with the undulating melodies of the heartbreaking ‘Nimrod’ adding a sombre and tender tone to the evening.
Conductor Tom Gauterin seamlessly handles each work, with lead violinist Anneka Sutcliffe playing with striking poise and skill.
Bristol Classical Players play with incredible flair and style, their physical and musical dynamism giving way in an instant to subtle and thoughtful expression.
I left with the distinct impression that this is an orchestra that can do it all.
Main photo: Guy Bryan
Read next:
- Review: Peach, Rough Trade – ‘An energetic, anger fuelled band’
- Review: Squid, SWX – ‘They are relentless’
- Review: Baxter Dury, SWX – ‘Full of joy’
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