For its season finale gala concert the RSNO presented a suitably rangy, full-blooded programme, opening proceedings with Ravel's colourful Alborada del gracioso.
It was a strong start, the ensemble clearly relishing this work's intense variety of texture and dynamic under the exacting, energetic direction of conductor Peter Oundjian.
Featured soloist Nicola Benedetti then took to the stage to present two perennial favourites of the violin showcase repertoire: Vaughan Williams's The Lark Ascending and Saint Saens's Introduction And Rondo Capriccioso. In the former, she gave a beautifully balanced performance, soaring above the benign orchestral accompaniment with exactly the right mix of grace and controlled emotion. With the Saint Saens she sought to strike an earthier, more visceral tone, but the swaggering confidence needed for this piece to achieve its full impact wasn't quite there, and her tendency to rush in the closing stages made it difficult for the orchestra to retain synchronicity.
The second half was entirely given over to Walton's Henry V: A Shakespeare Scenario – just the kind of large-scale production at which this orchestra so excels, and an ideal opportunity to involve the RSNO Chorus and Junior Chorus, along with additions to the percussion and bass departments and the assured narration of Cal MacAninch. En masse they produced a thrilling performance, gloriously realising the power and diversity of Walton's stirring music.
It was especially heartening to note their ability to move from the gorgeous, wistful romanticism of the second Interlude to the overwhelming full-throttle onslaught of the Agincourt scene with such total authority. We should look forward to their 2013:14 season with excited anticipation.
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