“Neilsen’s Violin Concerto was an hypnotic experience that touches the soul.”
I would like to preface this review – I have very little musical knowledge so cannot comment on the style of music or it’s arrangement – only my enjoyment of it!
Neilsen’s concerto at Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall was a masterpiece. The ambiance of the hall was unforgettable, with hushed chatter mixing with the orchestras warming up noises in the brightly lit concerto hall. This chatter dimmed along with the lights just before the performance started. From the very first note, I was hooked, captivated by the sheer brilliance and emotion the music portrayed.
The show was made up of three sections: Ruth Gipps’s Song for Orchestra, Nielsen’s Violin Concerto and Borodin’s Symphony No.2. All were astounding works of art that often transported me through a world of places and emotions.
This concerto truly is a showcase of talent; both of individual talent, as well as, the beauty of all that talent combining into one cohesive unit that was the orchestra. I was hypnotised zooming into sections of the orchestra as they played, attempting to single out their sound before zooming out and taking in the whole picture again. From the delicate whispers to the thunderous crescendos, every moment of this concerto was a testament to the composers genius and musicians talent. It’s rare to encounter an experience that leaves such a lasting impression, but this concerto has firmly etched itself into my heart and soul.
Principal Guest Conductor Andrew Manze led the production with skill and assurance, his gestures were big and passionate – drawing the whole piece together.
Neither me nor my plus one had a bad word to say about this performance and left the Philharmonic raving about the whole experience. In short, if you have the opportunity to experience this violin concerto live, do not hesitate for a moment. It is an experience that will stay with you long after the final note has faded away. Bravo to all involved in bringing this concerto to life!