Conducting this week and next is Mark Wigglesworth who was recently appointed music director of the English National Opera. Wigglesworth is a true veteran having conducted the BBC Symphony Orchestra for years, as dozens of major orchestras throughout the world. The first piece of the evening was A Freak in Burbank. Inspired by the life of Tim Burton, Schnelzer's work was a hodgepodge of story-telling and musical homage to the popular film director. Rhythmically interesting, but never allowing a sense of resolution, the piece was interesting yet forgettable despite the symphony's excellent interpretation.
Joining the stage at Abravanel Hall was Russian pianist Alexander Melnikov. A terribly unassuming man, reluctant to take any applause for just himself, he is a genius at the keyboard. Grieg's Piano Concerto has been one of the world best-loved concerti since it's premier and Melnikov offered a performance of it that showed off the capabilities of the instrument as well as his own immense talent. The first movement, being exceedingly virtuosic, this mild-mannered man explored the full range of the keyboard in pitch and dynamic, sometimes bordering on the the "too-loud" spectrum. Melnikov had the audience in the palm of his hand during the cadenza and he teased us between the lightning fast runs and lyrical single-note melodies. Incredibly moving, Melnikov's interpretation of the second movement was so sincere and passionate many eyes in the hall began to well up with tears. Concluding the stunning final movement, Melnikov seemed unsatisfied to take credit for the remarkable performance alone and his sincere humility was exceptionally charming and rare given the unforgettable performance he gave. Melnikov is an incredible talent I hope to see returning to the Abravanel stage soon!
Symphony No. 2 in D Major by Jean Sibelius is one of the composer's most beloved work and regularly programmed at the Utah Symphony. Though one can be critical of Wigglesworth conducting technique, his interpretation of this monumental and familiar work could be surpassed by few! Conducting from memory, Wigglesworth provided a emotionally-informed interpretation that was stunning and moving. With a clear understanding of the work and Sibelius' folk-sounding melodies and his exquisite craftsmanship, the Maestro knew precisely how to illuminate each nuance and phrase turning this work from familiar to transcendental. Wigglesworth will continue to conduct the Symphony next week for Dvorak's "New World"Symphony, Lutoslawski's Symphony No. 4, and Mozart's Symphony No. 35. I implore you to attend these to hear the masterful interpretations of this remarkable musician.
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