London Philharmonic Orchestra, Rory Macdonald (conductor), Lambis Vassiliadis (piano)

Humperdinck’s prelude to Hansel and Gretel was a warmly played opener, although fairly slight and underwhelming in isolation from its whole. Chopin’s Piano Concerto no.2 however was an altogether richer and fuller experience. Vassiliadis’ playing was slippery, sprawling and evocative, particularly when underlined with an intricately conducted sea of strings in the second movement. Such a graceful, intelligent performance of an irresistibly melodic concerto was understandably well received by the crowd, although the overlong solo encore was perhaps a little too showy and Liberace. Dvořák’s symphony no.8 was a success across the board, with piercing horns standing out as well as a beautiful flourish from first violin Pieter Schoeman.

Concert Hall, Brighton Dome, 17 January 2014

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