C.S.O. concert

Press, 19 August 1985, Page 8

C.S.O. concert

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Carl Pini, in the first concert of the 1985-86 Subscription Series at the Town Hall Auditorium, August 17, at 8 p.m. Reviewed by Philip Norman. Two cheers for the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra. In Saturday evening’s concert the orchestra produced a sizzling account of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 and a memorable repeat performance of the popular “Four Seasons” by Vivaldi. It was, in short, one of the most enjoyable concerts given by the city’s orchestra in recent times. Much of the credit for this must go to the conductor, Carl Pini. The strength and vitality of his musical personality infused the players with an energy that was often compelling. His precise beat ana clear cueing ensured that rhythms and entries, with few exceptions, remained clean and confident. . As violin soloist m the “Four Seasons,” Carl Pini’s effortless articulation of the virteosi lines was an obvi-#-‘

ous inspiration to the accompanying instrumentalists. With such a sprightly, assured lead, all four concert! remained buoyant in spirit throughout. The pulse and momentum of the music rarely faltered. Mention must also be made of Carl Pini’s tasteful ornamentation and his unfailing sense of phrasing. These strengths of his playing were used to excellent effect particularly in the inner, slow movements of the concerti. Apart from the robust rhythms and high spirits, one of the most pleasing aspects of the performance of the Beethoven symphony was the happy intonation. All praises be, it would seem the members of the woodwind section in particular are at last listening to one another and working as an ensemble team. The horn playing, also, was the cleanest it has been for a while. The response of the orchestra to Carl Pini’s direction in this work was first-rate. Wide, dynamic -contrasts and subtle mani-

pulations of the ongoing pulse were effected with ease. The third, and opening, work of the programme was Stravinsky’s Concerto in D for string orchestra. While the orchestra gave a creditable account of this tricky score, in comparison with the other two works, there was little sense of joy in the playing. The second movement, in particular, was a touch ponderous. Fortunately, this was offset by a suitably agitated accompaniment in the third movement, which helped lift the performance to its peak of intensity in the closing stages. Saturday evening’s concert was one of the last to be organised by the orchestra’s general manager, Christopher Brodrick, before he assumes his new post as general manager of the Royal New Zealand Ballet Company. His administrative and promotional skills have had a profound effect on the orchestra’s public profile in recent years; the deft touch of his guiding hand will be sorely