Saturday capped a week of work in Seattle: clams and regional wines al fresco, then a memorable concert by the Seattle Symphony. Benaroya Hall (which opened in 1998) is a jewel with an arching, windowed lobby and an auditorium that does wonders with wood and light. Joshua Roman, formerly the orchestra’s principal cellist, played the world premiere of a concerto by David Stock.
The work isn’t for everyone’s taste, being a 21st-century piece with harmonies that may unsettle more traditional ears. It is lush and resonant, though, with much to offer in the hands of artists like young Roman, conductor James DePreist and the able orchestra. It’s in three movements, played without pause. I listened mostly with eyes closed while savoring the rich textures and tangy angularity, then delighted in Roman’s encore of the prelude from Bach’s first suite for unaccompanied cello.
The Seattle Symphony played well, but I’d give Indy the edge in warmth and precision of strings. Great wind section, though, and DePreist led the program masterfully. The concerto was preceded by Smetana’s Bartered Bride overture and followed by Rachmaninoff’s last work: Symphonic Dances, with signature Rach moments but also hints of jazz (alto sax, for example—how French!).
My evening was a total sensory experience, from the balmy, outdoor dining to the sumptuous design of the ten-year-old Benaroya hall. The music took center stage, though, thanks to deft collaboration by artists who obviously enjoyed the whole enterprise. Mr. Stock was on hand to hear the delayed premiere of his concerto, which was written in 2001 but which, after the original soloist took ill, languished until Joshua Roman made it his own.
Here’s to being sent out of town on business . . .
dh
Tags: Bach, cello, Dan Henkel, James DePreist, Joshua Roman, music, Rachmaninoff, Seattle, symphony
