Lovely evening tonight listening to the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra playing at the Town Hall. Despite the 80's interior (there's even a mirror ball way up high!) the acoustics are excellent.
First up, Mozart's Bassoon Concerto in B flat major. As an ex-cellist, I'm a fan of lower-pitched instruments (cellos, bassoons, horns etc). Very lyrical, well executed and typical Mozart.
Second up, Strauss' Metamorphosen. Hmmm. Never been a massive fan of Strauss anyway and this can only be described as orchestra lift music. The middle of the trilogy is always the trickiest...think "The Two Towers"! Conductor didn't help, primarily waving his hands around without paying any attention to the music or pace. Lucky the double bass player kept good time.
Lastly, and the crowning glory, Beethoven's 5th Symphony. Probably the most recognised first movement in the world. The orchestra seemed almost nervous at the start however carried it well. Second movement maybe a little slow. The third movement, which in my opinion is the best, was excellent. Both the audience and orchestra really got into it and emphatically played. Ah Beethoven :)
And having seen the pipe organ in the Town Hall, I'm itching to hear it before we leave!
The Rose
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