Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra – Andrejs Osokin (piano) Barry Wordsworth (conductor)

Dvořák’s Slavonic Dances made an invigorating overture, full of energetic and graceful dance rhythms.

The revelation of this concert was Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 6, Op. 61a. Arranged by the composer himself from his violin concerto, with specially added piano cadenzas, it was like meeting an old friend in brand-new party clothes, a little confusing but very lovely. Osokin gave a spirited and winning performance.

The orchestra showed its worth in Dvořák’s New World Symphony. Exciting, nostalgic and so full of memorable tunes, it’s no wonder the audience was in raptures. The whole programme was heart-warming on a chill afternoon.

Coda: Maestro Wordsworth endured an amusing encounter with the piano movers during his plea for sponsorship. We wish him every success.

Concert Hall, Brighton Dome, 12 January 2014

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