Rian Evans 

Warsaw Philarmonic Orchestra

Colston Hall, Bristol
  
  


In fairness to the Warsaw orchestra, they did open with Gorecki's Three Pieces in the Old Style for string orchestra, his haunting evocation of a modal age, with the multiple layering also admitting a more raw harmonic colouring, vibrantly reflected here. It was indicative of the caution with which such a piece was offered that the programme notes said more about the composer's Third Symphony, the commercial success of the late 90s.

Chopin concertos constitute the passe-partout for Polish pianists travelling with this orchestra, though Ewa Poblocka took the Grieg too. Her playing of the F minor concerto, No 2, showed a feel both for the singing of phrases and for the strong rhythmic accents. But the lack of any bravura moments meant it was not a compelling interpretation.

In contrast, Wit and his orchestra gave a muscular performance of Brahms' First Symphony. The wind may lack real refinement; similarly, the strings do not have the lushness of the great ensembles. Nevertheless, Wit maintained a discipline and tension. But Brahms' lollipop Hungarian Dance No 5 was the safe-bet encore.

· At the Sands Centre, Carlisle (01228 625222), February 11 and the Usher Hall, Edinburgh (0131-228 1155), on February 12.

 

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