Dvořák, Mozart & Mysliveček Dvořák
Czech Suite, Op.39 Olivier Roberti (piano) English Chamber Orchestra/
Alexander Briger This concert, as so many recently, was dedicated to the Memory of Sir Charles Mackerras, whose widow was present. The ECO was in good health under Alexander Briger, who I was glad to see conducting live, having previously known his notable Signum studio recordings of major cello concertos with Jamie Walton. In the sympathetic acoustic of Cadogan Hall, the easy-going Czech Suite made a good opener. I enjoyed too the experienced Olivier Roberti in Mozart's K467. He has a modest manner, brought in with him the piano score of the concerto, but scarcely looked at it. This was a traditional performance on a modern Steinway, without striving to impress; one to draw you into the music, the natural balance a change from recorded spotlighting of the soloist. Ana de la Vega has made a special study of Czech rarities, but seemed unequal to persuading us that Mysliveček's formulaic Flute Concerto, with its three cadenzas, was worth ressurecting. Her thin tone and lack of performance flair disappointed, despite filming in attendance, an imposing concert dress and her "close relationship with Swarowski" - we were told she'd be wearing their jewelry... The composer was a friend of Mozart's and Sir Charles Mackerras' Mysliveček manuscripts collection of his music is at RAM, awaiting sorting and cataloguing there... Maybe it'll go better on her forthcoming recording? Peter Grahame Woolf |