Home / Arts and Entertainment / Simpson Shines in Higgins's Exquisite New Concerto
Simpson Shines in Higgins's Exquisite New Concerto
18 Oct
Summary
- Higgins's clarinet concerto, promised 20 years ago, finally premieres.
- Mark Simpson's virtuosic performance showcased vocalise and rapid riffs.
- The concert also featured spirited renditions of Britten and Stravinsky.
Twenty years after a youthful promise, Gavin Higgins's clarinet concerto, commissioned by Mark Simpson, has received its premiere. The work, a highlight of Simpson's tenure as the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra's artist in residence, captivated with its vivid musical colors and dynamic contrasts. Simpson's virtuosic solo line, described as both keening vocalise and rapid blips, intricately navigated the orchestral textures.
The performance evoked comparisons to John Adams and Aaron Copland, yet Simpson fully inhabited the concerto, delivering a physically demanding and ecstatic conclusion. This significant premiere was complemented by equally compelling performances of Benjamin Britten's Suite on English Folk Tunes and Igor Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring.
Conductor Adam Hickox led the orchestra with spellbinding pacing, drawing out the dark undertones of Britten's suite and imbuing Stravinsky's masterpiece with thrilling directness. The Philharmonic Hall's bright acoustic served the performance well, highlighting Hickox's reputation as a major rising conducting star.
