Captivating pieces from a versatile orchestra

Review by Vivien Willatt

Saturday 30th June 2018
The Capitol Horsham

Mendelssohn: Hebrides Overture “Fingal’s Cave” Op. 26
Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D minor Op. 47 (Soloist: Rachel Ellis)
Brahms: Symphony No.4 in E minor Op. 98 

It was clear from the very first stroke of the baton that Horsham Symphony Orchestra meant business with their latest performance. Dedicated to long time supporter Peter Ring, and playing to a capacity audience, the concert launched us without preamble into the captivating atmospherics of Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture, Fingal’s Cave. Under conductor Steve Dummer’s expert direction, the orchestra brought out every poetic nuance of the ebb and flow of this evocative tone poem. The lower strings and bassoons brought a beautiful richness to the opening theme, underpinning the lyrical solo clarinet melody – a very assured performance throughout.

Judging by her enthusiastic welcome to the stage, soloist Rachel Ellis’ performance of the Sibelius Violin Concerto in D minor was perhaps the most eagerly awaited item on the programme. Widely regarded as one of the most technically demanding pieces in the violin repertoire, Rachel rose to the challenge with consummate professionalism. She displayed dazzling virtuosity in the acrobatic cadenzas of the 1st movement, moving to great emotional depths playing the achingly beautiful 2nd movement melodies. Following with the sheer exuberance and finger fireworks of the final movement, Rachel showed what an exceptionally talented performer she is. Throughout, the chemistry between soloist and orchestra was tangible – a memorable performance worthy of the tumultuous applause.

After the interval, following a touching tribute to Peter Ring, and a few tantalising hints about HSO’s future projects from Steve Dummer, we settled in for the 3rd major work of the evening – Symphony No.4 in E minor, by Brahms. The sweeping beginning of the 1st movement set the tone for a confident crisp performance, as the ever changing melodies moved seamlessly throughout each orchestral section, building to a majestic finish. The 2nd movement, the Andante, with its haunting woodwind opening over a shimmer of upper strings, featured beautifully lyrical melodies from the lower strings and horns. The Allegro Giocoso, (3rd movement), lived up to its name – playful melodies, with syncopated rhythms ably played by the young percussionists; leading into the grandeur of the final movement. Here HSO was in its element. From the solid brass introduction, followed by the sensitive accompaniment under the sublime flute solo, through to the exhilarating intensity of the final bars, Steve Dummer managed to draw out yet another outstanding performance from this versatile orchestra. One can only wonder what riches are to come!