It is by no means dismissive of the contribution by the whole orchestra but the solos and exposed work of various sections of this large ensemble were the outstanding performances of a thoroughly workmanlike concert.
Rimsky-Korsakov’s Symphonic Suite, Op 35, Scheherazade, is a heaven-sent showcase.
Orchestra leader Alison Boden naturally has the lion’s share and she rose to the task with grace and professionalism.
Conductor Eugene Montieth - of whom, strangely not a word in the programme - was right to single out for particular applause his various sections: Woodwind, brass, horns and percussion. And a gratifyingly full house responded with enthusiasm.
Mendelssohn’s Fingal’s Cave, from the Hebrides overture set the nautical tone for the evening leading into Britten’s Four Sea Interludes (from Peter Grimes).
Montieth has an almost nonchalant conducting appearance with little histrionics.
It is obviously an approach which works for BSO: Although a few more dynamic highs and lows might have imbued a little more texture the whole feeling was of a hugely satisfying presentation.
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