London Philharmonic Orchestra – Elena Tanski (violin), Vladimir Jurowski (conductor)

Rachmaninoff’s ‘Isle Of The Dead’ tone poem opened the evening fascinatingly, with a mournful and delicately layered horn section underpinning beautifully swimming swirls of strings. The Violin Concerto no. 1 from Profokiev on the other hand was more challenging and it sounded like Elena Tanski was occasionally out of time, although the composer might have intended such disharmony. The ‘Symphonic Dances’ from Rachmaninoff was a relentlessly melodic and invigorating performance however, with a fine balance struck between a variety of instruments including glockenspiel, triangle, piano, harp and many more. The fun piece flew by in a romantic haze to a stunning, electrifying finale.

Concert Hall, Brighton Dome, 27 September 2014
Rating:
Joe Fuller