Part of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra’s Matinee Symphony Series, Dvořák’s New World wowed the concert-goers at the State Theatre on Thursday, 30th April.
Image credit: Daniel James Grant
Opening with Gioachino Rossini’s Semiramide: Overture, WASO’s Principal Conductor Asher Fisch expertly set the tone for a full hour of vibrant orchestral precision. Ignoring the plot of this ‘melodrama tragico’ and appreciating the piece at face value, the overture was a fitting choice to start the proceedings, fulfilling Rossini’s aim to uplift and excite the audience for the main course. Finishing off with the famous ‘Rossini crescendo’, whereby the piling of instruments and volume builds to a thrilling climax, we are reminded of what WASO does best — illustrating the fine balance of dynamism and sensitivity, clarity and passion.
Antonin Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9 in E minor, Op. 95 From the New World was delivered with both conviction and nuance. From the brooding opening, Dvořák’s distinctive voice was clear. Under Fisch’s direction, the orchestra expertly navigated the shifting moods of the piece with precision while maintaining an undercurrent of tension.
Particularly of note was the contrast between the introspective Largo movement, showcasing emotional depth, and the lively Scherzo, bursting with whimsy and energy. Culminating in the powerful final Allegro con fuoco, the recurring themes from the previous movements were interwoven into the final triumphant coda.
The result was a performance both cohesive and exhilarating, bringing new vitality to Dvořák’s work, and a thoroughly invigorating hour of music. Bravo!