Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra, Chloë Hanslip (violin), Cristian Mandeal (conductor)

Enescu’s Romanian Rhapsody No.1 began calmly until the playful woodwind passed the theme to the strings. It became more vibrant, a jolly country dance, then a furious rush and torrent of gipsy passion. After this, Korngold’s Violin Concerto was an indulgent balm, played with a rich sensuality and emotional depth. You know a soloist has hit the spot when the orchestra can’t help smiling at one another.

Afterwards, Elgar’s magisterial First Symphony marched steadily on with a measured excitement. From an more straight-laced era than Enescu’s juvenilia and Korngold’s post-war epic, this conventional interpretation couldn’t stir the blood as much.

Dome Concert Hall, 5 March 2017

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