Review: The Courier/ Dundee Symphony Orchestra/ Bruch Violin Concerto

by Janet Thomson

A substantial Suite from Tchaikovsky’s Ballet Sleeping Beauty followed: from the urgent Introduction, through the characterful woodwind of the Lilac Fairy, the grand Adagio, the colourfully descriptive Puss-in-Boots, to the famous Panorama, done full justice, and  finally the well-known, vertiginous Waltz.

Described as a big sister to all in Sistema Scotland, the DSO’s patron and soloist in Bruch’s Violin Concerto was Nicola Benedetti. Against the rich orchestral background Nicola Benedetti displayed warmth and ability to soar – just right for this most Romantic of concertos. Heart and spirit flowed through the gorgeous tunes of the Adagio and the virtuoso finale sparkled with grand full tone. At the end Nicola Benedetti spoke of the beautiful atmosphere of having Big Noise Douglas and the DSO together.

After the Interval the DSO under Robert Dick gave a performance of Elgar’s “Enigma” Variations where the orchestra shone collectively and individually. The nobility of the Nimrod towered, well contrasted with the delicate Dorabella. With both panache and thoughtfulness Elgar’s own variation had the giant contribution of the Caird Hall organ in the exciting, final climax.

Courier News – Dundee – Janet Thomson story; CR0005334 performance by Big Noise Children
followed by performance with Nicola Benedetti and Dundee Symphony Orchestra. Picture Shows; Nicola Benedetti on stage and conductor Robert Dick, Carid Hall, Dundee, 19th December 2018. Pic by Kim Cessford / DCT Media