Image: rmp.org.au
Composed just two years apart in the 1930s, Rachmaninov’s Paganini Rhapsody and Orff’s Carmina Burana – though poles apart in character – were both delivered in spades in a one night only performance at the Melbourne Town Hall.
Rachimaninov’s Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini was consistently virtuosic from start to end. Pianist Stefan Cassomenos was delicate and forceful, playful and romantic as he moved between variations with simplicity, it was only the acoustically-poor space that muddied the orchestra and the piano at times.
In what could be one of the world’s first ever mash ups, to create Carmina Burana composer Carl Orff was inspired by the medieval Latin verses of dances and minstrel songs discovered in a Bavarian Monastery in 1803. Orff managed to combine these poems into a cantata of epic proportions.
The oft heard ‘O Fortuna’ which opens and closes Carmina Burana, one had to put all expectations of ho hum cliché aside. The opening bars were like taking a spin in a jet fighter – the power of the chorale pushing us back in our seat, despite the challenged acoustics of the venue.
Soloists also shine through this work. Soprano Greta Bradman was all strength in her lower register and delicate at the top. Counter Tenor Tobias Cole was memorable for his two minutes wearing what looked to be a black feathered lapel on his tuxexdo. Barritone Andrew Jones who had most of the solo work to do lightened the mood with his drunken abbott (ego sum abbas), but was devoured by the orchestra at other times.
The chorale made up of three choirs was spectacular. Andrew Wailes led everyone with great vigour and clarity. All on stage were having a rollicking good time and this translated for the audience who whooped and cheered at the conclusion for numerous bows until ‘O Fortuna’ was sung once again as an encore. It must be remembered that this is a difficult piece of music.
Percussive, syncopated folky tempo changes all make for a challenging night for a choir of this size and orchestra alike. But the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic were well up to the task.
4.5 Stars out of 5
Carmina Burana and Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini
Royal Melbourne Philharmonic
Melbourne Town Hall
September 27 One performance only
