The Queensland Symphony Orchestra launched its 2016 Maestro series of concerts at QPAC on Saturday (27 February) in suitably lavish and dramatic style, with a stirring rendition of Mahler’s second symphony, ‘Resurrection’.
The concert was broadcast on the ABC Classic FM, and recorded by Foxtel Arts for later transmission.
The introduction by QSO CEO Sophie Galaise, and additional comments by Premier and Minister for the Arts, Annastacia Palaszczuk was somewhat marred by an intrusive noise from backstage; however this was fortunately remedied before the performance itself.
The staggering array of musicians and choristers arriving on the stage, followed by Concertmaster Warwick Adeney, and then by Conductor Alondra de la Parra in her dazzling ruby red shoes, was a hint of the musical riches to follow.
Regarded by many as the pinnacle of the symphonic form, Mahler’s second symphony contrasts sweeping lyricism with majestic drama in genuinely awesome fin de siècle style. At times muted and subtle, but more often vibrant, thrilling and exhilarating, this was a breathtaking and tumultuous journey of the soul.
Photos from QSO's Mahler #2.
Alondra de la Parra as Conductor was both imposing and feminine, with her strong hands, and fluid, elegantly expressive and impassioned gestures, appearing to reach into the very heart of the musicians, and drawing forth the essence of this enthralling piece.
Mezzo soprano Jennifer Johnston, in her Australian debut, coupled with Soprano Dominique Fegan and Ensemble-in-Residence ‘The Australian Voices’, were seamlessly melded into the orchestral milieu in the monumental and ultimately joyous final movements.
Such was our absorption in this majestic music that the full 80 minutes without an interval swept by all too quickly.
Alondra de la Parra, Music Director designate for the QSO, is one of the most highly regarded conductors of her generation, and her appointment is universally acknowledged as something of a coup for the QSO. The QSO is in fact the first Australian orchestra to appoint a Music Director, and Alondra de la Parra commences this newly created role in 2017, the orchestra’s 70th anniversary year.
We look forward to further delights from this ongoing association.
