Taut rhythms, brisk tempos, incredible pianissimi and erupting fortes, made this one of the best Sacre du Printemps performances this reviewer has heard. Indeed, this was a superb concert for many reasons, not the least of which are the high quality playing of the North Carolina Symphony and the intelligent and musical leadership of its music director, Grant Llewellyn.
Opening with a sensuous and delicate performance of Debussy’s Prelude to “L’àprès-midi d’un faune,” an alluring and mystical poem by French poet Stephane Mallarmé, the program included an elegant and sparkling performance of the early symphony by Haydn, No. 8, Le soir, “The Evening.” All pieces were situated from the podium by Maestro Llewellyn with intelligence and humor.
But surely the large crowd that filled Meymandi Concert Hall was there for the Stravinsky! And to learn more of what sparked a riot at the first performance, a century ago, and a standing ovation at this Meymandi concert, don’t miss this concert Saturday night at 8:00PM at Meymandi Concert Hall. For details, see the sidebar.
More commentary on Monday….
