Just got back from the RFH. The concert was just brilliant, and I can't imagine what the second one on Sunday will be like.
Tonights programme consisted of:
* Shostakovich - Festive Overture
* Rachmaninov - Piano Concerto no 1
* Rachmaninov - Symphony no 2
This was my first time hearing the Shostakovich. I sat in the choir area, so I managed to get a good view of the orchestra/Pletnev. I must say, he is a brilliant conductor. His facial expressions say a lot, and I especially noticed how he conducted the whole concert entirely from memory (no scores in front of him, as far as I'm aware of). Can anybody tell me why he quit playing the piano in public?
I enjoyed Lugansky's poetic approach to Rach First Concerto, with unique lyricism whilst being so effortless and tidy. He seems to be really in a world of his own, with his head up with his eyes closed most of the time. I particularly enjoyed the third movement and how easy he made it look!
The Rach Symphony was very inspiring. This was the reason why I was amazed by Pletnev conducting entirely from memory. He had total command over every phrase, big or small. At the end, the woman that sat next to me even pulled out a handkerchief :P
Overall I've enjoyed tonight
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