Venue: The Orpheum Theatre
Date(s): 19 October, 2001
Reviewer: Jane Penistan
The young south American conductor, Roberto Minczuk,
produced a very exciting rendition of Alexina Louie's The Ringing
Earth, which was originally commissioned for the opening gala of
Expo '86. The opening movement was a joyous explosion of rhythmic
sound, with all sections of the orchestra ringing in harmony.
The following section was slower and more sonorous, pulsating like
the tides of mighty oceans. This work has a magnificence and grandeur
suited to a breathing, living, sentient world: The Ringing Earth.
Jon Kimura Parker did not disappoint his admirers at his welcome home
to the Orpheum. Prokofiev's number 3 Piano Concerto in C Major. Op 26,
was a tour de force for Kimura Parker. He played with ease, the music
appearing to flow from his energetic, beautifully controlled fingers.
At times the orchestra tended to overpower this magnificent playing,
almost as if they were competing with the soloist, rather than
complementing, particularly in the second movement, Tema com
Variazione, where the piano variations are so intricate and were so
impeccably played. Nevertheless this was an exhilarating performance.
Tchaikovsky's Symphony Number 5 in E Minor, Op.64 was the final
offering of the evening. This well known work seems to hold all
Russia with its singing themes, dancing allegro, aching loneliness,
and its majesty. It was a satisfying close to a most enjoyable concert.
© 2001, Jane Penistan