Dvořák's towering B minor Cello Concerto was written during his second tour of America but has little to do with the 'new world' – rather, it looks back nostalgically and is inspired by the composer's native Bohemia, drawing heavily on the folk dances of his homeland.
The RSNO opened the work in a gentle fashion (Allegro); the first theme, introduced by the clarinets over a quiet accompaniment in the lower strings, was then echoed and extended by the first violins building quickly towards a grand orchestral climax.
The orchestra performed with great beauty, lyricism and passion, all suggestive of Dvořák's love of the Czech landscape.
The cello entered exploring the opening theme through a series of variations skilfully executed by the wonderfully assured technique and smooth tone of Truls Mørk (cello).
Moreover, the RSNO, under the talented direction and baton of conductor Thomas Søndergård, played a gentle, song-like tune which built to a stormy orchestral climax preparing the ground for the cellist's first reference to Josephina's song, which Mørk developed with great feeling in the second movement (Adagio, ma non troppo).
The last movement (Allegro moderato) opened quietly in this most inventive of movements – many of Dvořák's themes from previous movements were introduced and performed in a mood of subdued reflection – this, however, was not to last as the orchestra shook off reminiscences to bring the concerto to a storming close.
Petrouchka, written in 1947 by Igor Stravinsky, formed the second half the evening's programme.
Petrouchka, one of the landmarks of Stravinsky's early output, and of 20th century music in general, tells the story of the fate of a Russian puppet who comes to life.
With a full complement of RSNO musicians, this work was performed with exhilarating rhythmic vitality and combined instrumental timbres, dynamics and mood in a performance of technical brilliance.
During the performance, and safe to say, not scored was the felt end of the timpanist beater which came loose launching itself high above the percussion section. With a glint in his eye and shrug of shoulders and, I'm sure, thoughts of the old adage 'the show must go on,' Martin Gibson (principal timpanist) reached for another beater and continued his sterling performance.
The evening was brought to a close following a most enjoyable encore.
Time: Friday 24th May, 2013 at 7.30 pm