Review - 26 Nov 2021

Symphony orchestra’s return a triumph!

The complete and utter joy of making and experiencing music was palpable at Dunedin Town Hall on Friday night as a Covidlimited audience were treated to a superb performance by Dunedin Symphony Orchestra.

Beethoven's 'Emperor'

Dunedin Symphony Orchestra, Dunedin Town Hall, Friday, November 26

The complete and utter joy of making and experiencing music was palpable at Dunedin Town Hall on Friday night as a Covidlimited audience were treated to a superb performance by Dunedin Symphony Orchestra.

Conducted by Kenneth Young, the concert began with Leonie Holmes’ Elegy, a sombre, lyrical work played sensitively by the orchestra.

The tempo increased markedly in Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9, which begins in an upbeat, bouncy fashion, developing into a reflective slow movement, before building to an intense finale. The DSO were on-form throughout this complex symphony, especially the brass section, remaining rock solid while bringing out moments of musical comedy.

With anticipation building during the halftime break, the audience warmly welcomed the arrival of New Zealand musical treasure Diedre Irons at the piano for Beethoven’s Concerto No.5 in E flat, Emperor. From the opening bars, Irons’ mastery was evident in a performance that was gentle, unhurried and passionate, but always joyful. The DSO provided sterling support, helping to bring the Emperor concerto’s brilliant interplay between piano and orchestra to the fore. Sustained applause was a just reward for a wonderful performance by both Irons and the DSO.

In a year of Covid-19 disruptions to the arts, it was a special treat indeed to be able to gather en masse and experience such impressive and uplifting live music. Bravo!


Review by Brenda Harwood, The Star, 2 December 2021

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