The Herald 23rd August 2008
Edinburgh Youth Orchestra String Ensemble
Haydn Cello Concerto Review
Location: Greyfriars Kirk
Star rating: ****
Covering new ground in several different ways, the first Fringe performance of the Edinburgh Youth Orchestra String Ensemble also featured the Scottish premiere of a new work for cello and strings by Howard Goodall, And the Bridge is Love. As both director and soloist, cellist Julian Lloyd Webber already has a long relationship with the ensemble, conducting them with knowing precision, as well displaying his own talents as a soloist.
A fascinating programme also included Haydn’s Cello Concerto in C, a piece which remained undiscovered for almost 200 years until 1961. Played with refined composure, the fine balance between ensemble and soloist was achieved.
As conductor, Lloyd Webber also directed a work by his father, William Lloyd Webber, which was performed with zeal by the ensemble, bringing rich syrupy sounds from the cellos and ethereal tones from the violins. A select elite from a talented group of young musicians, Edinburgh Youth Orchestra String Ensemble promises to be a group to watch in the ever-expanding youth music scene in Scotland.
Miranda Heggie
Location: Greyfriars Kirk
Star rating: ****
