Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra, Andriy Viytovych (viola) Barry Wordsworth (conductor)

In front of a super-large orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, Conductor Laureate of the Brighton Philharmonic, began with a wicked tease: two quiet pizzicato chords. Liszt’s ‘Les Préludes’ took its time to get to full orchestra, but then what a splendid sound they made! The 2016/7 season had started.

Andriy Viytovych gave a sensitive and entrancing performance of Walton’s ‘Viola Concerto’. He wears his virtuosity lightly, expressing the complexities of this wonderful work so effectively.

Tchaikovsky’s ‘Fifth Symphony’ let the whole orchestra show off, especially the horns, brass and woodwind. They really are on top form and launched the new season brilliantly.

Dome Concert Hall, 9 October 2016

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