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Orchestra Shines Despite Formless Concerto
27 Feb
Summary
- Jonny Greenwood's Violin Concerto premiered with mixed reception.
- The Hallé orchestra's string section was lauded as world-class.
- Other repertoire, including Reich and Lutosławski, was gripping.
At Bridgewater Hall in Manchester, the Hallé orchestra presented a concert featuring Radiohead guitarist and composer Jonny Greenwood. The event included the world premiere of Greenwood's Violin Concerto, with soloist Daniel Pioro. While Pioro's performance was noted for its virtuosity and moments of haunting beauty, the concerto was largely described as formless.
The program also featured Steve Reich's Pulse, where Greenwood performed on electric bass, contributing to a performance described as cool and understated. Earlier, Witold Lutosławski's Musique Funèbre demonstrated the Hallé's strings as a world-class ensemble and served as a clear precursor to Greenwood's own sound.
Despite some awkward staging and the composer's subdued acknowledgement of applause, the musicality of the performance, particularly from the Hallé's string section, was highly praised, making the overall experience compelling.
