The original program was modified for whatever reason. Starting the evening was Dukas's "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," not a favorite of mine but it was played with verve. Then came Gil Shaham in the concert's highlight, Sibelius's Violin Concerto. He and the New York Philharmonic musicians were in synch and it was an exciting performance that merited a standing ovation. The applause was enough to bring a solo encore but as is so often the case the name of the piece wasn't announced. To my ear it was a short work for violin composed between 1850-1915.
After intermission, Sibelius's "The Swan of Tuonela," a work I've always enjoyed since first hearing Bernstein lead this orchestra in it. English hornist Thomas Stacy doesn't get many solo opportunities but he shined tonight and his fellow musicians clearly appreciated his outstanding contribution.
To finish the evening, Stravinsky's 1919 suite, "The Firebird." Again, this orchestra and conductor knew their business. A taut, excellent reading.
Next week Maazel is to conduct Mahler's Sixth Symphony to close the season. I hope he's feeling much better by then because I'm muchlooking forward to Friday evening's performance.
