Opera: Rossini, Sarasate & Sullivan – Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra, Vasko Vassilev (violin), Barry Wordsworth (conductor)

I loved this rich programme of tunes from the opera and ballet. Nicely warmed up by Rossini’s William Tell Overture, we were all but scorched by the passion and virtuosity of the Sarasate pieces. His Gypsy Airs and Carmen Fantasy smouldered and sparkled from Vassilev’s violin so brilliantly that it was difficult not to interrupt each section with cheers.

Pineapple Poll, a jolly ballet score arranged from Sullivan’s operatic favourites, delivered climax after climax, as ballets do, each more thrilling than the last until the grand finale, which left the exhausted orchestra grinning, laughing and enjoying their well earned applause.

Concert Hall, Brighton Dome
29 January 2012

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