United Kingdom François Couperin, Bach, C.P.E. Bach, Benda, and Takemitsu:Mahan Esfahani (harpsichord). Wigmore Hall, London, 15.7.2014 (MB)
Mark Berry
Excellent Performance of Early Rachmaninov Opera
United Kingdom Rachmaninov, Aleko (concert performance): Soloists, Chorus (chorus master: William Cole), Melos Sinfonia, / Oliver Zeffman (conductor), St John’s Smith Square, London, 7.7.2014 (MB)
First Half of Demidenko Recital Proves Puzzling
United Kingdom Chopin, Rachmaninov, and Medtner: Nikolai Demidenko (piano). Wigmore Hall, London, 5.7.2014 (MB)
Opera Holland Park reveals cruel, glistening beauty of Britten’s score
United Kingdom Britten, The Turn of the Screw: Soloists, City of London Sinfonia / Steuart Bedford (conductor). Holland Park, London, 1.7.2014. (MB)
Turangalîla Provides a Wonderful Season Finale for the LSO
United Kingdom Beethoven and Messiaen:Steven Osborne (piano), Cynthia Miller (ondes-Martenot), London Symphony Orchestra, Jonathan Nott (conductor). Barbican Hall, London, 29.6.2014 (MB)
Excellent Student Performances of Bartók and Stravinsky
United Kingdom Bartók and Stravinsky:Students from the Royal Academy of Music, Dame Harriet Walter (narrator), Simon Wright (conductor). Hall One, Kings Place, 28.6.2014 (MB)
Pinchas Zukerman in Fine Form Both as Violinist and Conductor
United Kingdom Bach, Schoenberg, Mozart, and Mendelssohn: Arianna Zukerman (soprano), Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Pinchas Zukerman (violin, conductor). Cadogan Hall, London, 27.6.2014 (MB)
Excellent Performances in an Underwhelming Rossini Opera
United Kingdom Rossini, La Gazzetta: Soloists, Chorus, Royal College of Music Opera Orchestra, Michael Rosewell (conductor). Britten Theatre, Royal College of Music, 24.6.2014 (MB)