“A substantial piece…. (the orchestra) relished the rich orchestration”
THE MERCURY
“Special piece brings out best in orchestra”
By PETER DONNELLY
The Derwent Symphony Orchestra
Damien Holloway, conductor
Michael Lampard, baritone
Hobart Town Hall, September 2011
MATTHEW Dewey composed his Derwent Overture for this concert.
Anything but a frothy opener, it is a substantial piece, in content if not in length. The musical language is quite accessible, with overtones of Wagner and Sibelius, while retaining an individual character.
The work falls into several contrasting episodes, building towards a dramatic and optimistic climax. The DSO responded with some fine playing, relishing the rich orchestration, especially the writing for lower brass and strings.
Elgar’s Sea Pictures, Op 37 is rarely performed by a baritone, but Michael Lampard made a strong case with his excellent singing here. The tempi in the first two songs were a bit too slow, perhaps to accommodate the orchestra.
However, the middle song, Sabbath Morning at Sea, gained in power as performed by Lampard’s strong and sympathetic voice.
The orchestra, excellently directed by Damien Holloway, was in fine fettle and brought out much colourful detail in Elgar’s orchestration.
After interval, there was much to enjoy in the Sibelius Symphony No. 1 in E minor, Op 39 especially the woodwinds.
