The Scotsman 11th April 2006
Philip Glass Cello Concerto
EDINBURGH YOUTH ORCHESTRA
USHER HALL, EDINBURGH
THE Edinburgh Youth Orchestra’s ambitious programme for their Scottish spring tour was delivered with such panache that mainsiream ensembles should watch their backs. These talented players are also fortunate to have two of the most inspiring musicians in the UK — conductor Garry Walker and cellist Julian Lloyd Webber – guiding them though this demanding repertoire.
Philip Glass’s Concerto for Cello and Orchestra is deceptive in that it is more difficult than it appears. In this vibrant work — which received its Scottish premiere on Saturday night — rhythm is key. Once the classic Glass arpeggios get started, there are few opportunities to stop for breath. Much of the load rests on the soloist who has a long virtuosic cadenza at the start and plays throughout the piece. Technically, Lloyd Webber made it look easy, performing with compelling urgency and dynamism. The first and last movements were the most successful, but the exquisite lyrical slow movement almost ground to a halt due to a sluggish pace, a string section that didn’t quite deliver on the rich textures needed to support the soloist, and perhaps some indecision by Glass himself, who seemed unsure of where to at take his main theme.
Malcolm Arnold’s quirky Overture: Tam O’Shanter and Brahms’ Symphony No 4 were also given committed performances by tile EYO, with the wind and brass sections in particular showing off their strength.
SUSAN NICKALLS
