As we enter the second half of term, adverts for the concerts to be given by student ensembles are starting to appear throughout town, and it’s difficult to know which ones to go to. Of course, a college orchestra (typically non-auditioning) is likely to put on a concert for free, but then there are concerts by university-wide, auditioning orchestras with modest ticket prices.
Putting to one side the moral support that we should all feel compelled to give to our fellow students, it might sometimes be the case that the money spent on a ticket to see a university orchestra could be better used as a supplement to a more costly but less risky professional performance. This term, however, the Oxford University Orchestra, conducted by Benjamin Wallfisch, proved that they are not to be underestimated. While other student orchestras may struggle with their timing, their phrasing and their solos (no more or less than we would expect), the OUO demonstrated an impressive solidarity and skill.
After a delayed and disorganised entrance, any mild frustrations were put to rest by the opening piece, Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring, which was definitely the highlight of the programme. Naturally, there were minor hiccups dotted here and there (usually in the upper woodwind, though never a distraction), but the overall performance was shockingly demonic – every section of the orchestra played with fiery potency, and perfectly conjured the image of a pagan sacrificial dance.
After the interval, they returned with Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony – one of his most enduringly popular. The orchestra continued to play at the same high standard, and they proved that the most important thing for inexperienced players is self-confidence; they gave a stunning performance precisely because they knew they could. Away from all the infernal drama, during the more tender moments of the symphony, their focus shifted from ostentatious delivery and sonority to a conscious attempt to remain synchronised, which ironically affected their timing. But, once they had worked their way towards the dramatic finale, they were back on top-form and executed another perfect climax.
Recommended recordings:
‘The Rite of Spring’ by Stravinsky – The Philadelphia Orchestra, Riccardo Muti.
Symphony No. 5 by Shostakovich – The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Vasily Petrenko.
