Masterful. This afternoon was an example of how classical music should be enjoyed as a community
Rounding out their tour as a part of the Usher Hall’s Sunday Classics International Orchestra Season 2023-2024, Miloš with Arcangelo Ensemble triumphantly performed to the midafternoon audience despite the horrific mid-winter weather; a point made by the charismatic guitarist, himself. With an almost completely classical programme, the double act successfully treated the audience to a celebration of Baroque masterpieces by Vivaldi, Marcello, Bach, Pachelbel and Rameau. With alternating performances and a few collaborative performances, the afternoon was an example of how classical music should be enjoyed as a community experience beyond any cultural divide.
The Arcangelo Ensemble, under the direction of Johnny Cohen, was utter perfection as the group of twelve strong performers made each song seem as easy as breathing. They demonstrated a level of musicianship that was both refreshing and inspiring with a dynamism that left the audience entranced from piece to piece. Starting with Vivaldi’s L’Olimpiade, their precision and delicate handling of the music set the tone perfectly for the extensive set.
Miloš, coming off the release of his album Baroque, shared a series of solo guitar pieces, many of which are adapted from larger orchestral works. Introducing his pieces as “Baroque from a different angle,” his rendition of Bach’s Chaconne (extraite de la Partita pour violon seul BWV 1004) was a musical marathon in its own right. There is something to be said for his ambition to adapt classical music for a single instrument that did not exist at the time of the various piece’s conception. His introduction to the music set the stage for a set that left much to be desired. His performance was stiff and unimpassioned. It was all beautifully done, but lacked the animation and nuance that would transcend its source material. As a collaborator with Arcangelo, he played much more comfortably and met the energy of the ensemble, alone I was left wanting more and varied pieces.
It was evident as an audience that the musicians sharing their work were experts who believed deeply in the music they were sharing. However, the set did become tedious. I found it lacked variation and had a very sobering and meditative quality that unfortunately did become difficult to remain engaged with. This concert was gorgeous and well developed presenting an unchallenging array of classical music. It would serve as a textbook introduction to Baroque, Classical music as well as modern adaptation performed expertly and lovingly.
Click here to purchase Miloš’ newest album ‘Baroque’.