LATEST REVIEW
SEASON FINALE
Review of 13th July 2024 Concert - by Paul Nash
What an incredible way to end the 23/24 season of the Scarborough Symphony Orchestra. Not one, but two full symphonies and the beautiful Elgar Cello Concerto. A packed house again, listening intently as Shaun Matthew expertly leads this fantastic orchestra through these great works.
The first half was all about the cello. I have a particular affinity for the cello as it was my ‘given’ instrument at junior school, I’ll never forget the “whose that lad with the giant violin” taunts as I walked to school age 10, but it didn’t put me off as I loved the sound that my amateur fingers made as I scraped the bow over the strings and have loved the instrument ever since. There was nothing amateur about tonight’s performance however, the opening eight bars of Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony were beautifully played by the cello section lead by Imogen Lloyd, to begin the concert, before we were treated to some of the best melodies ever written as the symphony progresses. It was said to be the first symphony of the romantic era, and although it has its dark moments, you could certainly fall in love with this beautiful piece.
Next up was the stunning Cello Concerto by Elgar, featuring Christina Waldock on cello. Even if I had kept up my cello lessons I don’t think I could have ever aspired to play like this, the passion and skill of the performance was immense, and at times as Christina herself looked lost in the music I felt transported to a wonderous place of magnificent themes and strange beauty. Often called the cornerstone of the solo cello repertoire and one of Elgar’s most loved pieces, tonight you can see why. A truly inspired performance backed up beautifully by the orchestra.
After the break we had Carl Nielsen’s first symphony. For some this may be an unfamiliar work, but I guarantee after tonight’s magnificent performance the audience will be checking out more of this amazing composer’s catalogue. I know I will. The work begins with a loud C major chord (even though the symphony is in G minor). The power, drama and energy are incredible, and I must mention the wonderful growling brass section and the gorgeous woodwinds here. The waves of dynamics are breath-taking in this magnificent piece and the orchestra were equal to it, testament to Shaun’s superb conducting prowess. Before we know it, we are quickly transported through the rousing movements to finally end on the powerful G minor, and we can finally take a breath. It’s a really loud and proud affair, a joyous way to end the concert season of the SSO.
Personally, I can’t wait for the next season, but get your tickets early!
- Click here for tickets -