NSWO NewsDerby Cathedral Reviews (March 07, 2011)
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Nottingham Symphonic Wind Orchestra (NSWO) put together a varied programme of classical music, perfect for the beautiful setting of Derby Cathedral. The concert opened with a rousing rendition of Glinka’s overture to Ruslan and Ludmilla which set the tone for the evening – exciting and virtuosic playing was in store. By contrast, the atmospheric choral transcription by Eric Whitacre’s Lux Arumque used the acoustics of the Cathedral to great effect. Mars, The Bringer of War in Holst’s Planet Suite made a great impact with its driving rhythms - one audience member commented that the floor was moving under her feet.
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Eric Whitacre’s beautiful tone poem ‘October’, also the title track of NSWO’s latest CD, created a real feeling of atmosphere in the Cathedral with a warm response from the audience. The first half concluded with three movements from Shostakovich’s Jazz Suite II in which the orchestra sparkled. Solos from saxophone and percussion principals were well received.
The worlds of theatre and film provided inspiration for works in the second half with Woolfenden’s Gallimaufry, Stravinsky’s haunting Firebird Suite and the swirling notes of Dukas’ Sorcerer’s Apprentice. Kate Brown on clarinet played the demanding solo part in John Williams Viktor’s Tale with great poise and musicality. The Armenian Dances by Arthur Reed are a tour de force for wind orchestra, with rich scoring and rhythmic complexity. NSWO took these challenges in their stride and left the audience with the breathtaking energy of the final movement ringing in their ears.
For many members of the audience this was the first exposure to this experienced and musically mature group, one of leading orchestras of its kind in the UK, and there was a genuine and warm response in the cathedral.
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Keiron Anderson - NSWO Musical Director
The Nottingham Symphonic Wind Orchestra performed in Derby Cathedral on Saturday 12th February in a milestone concert which proved the experience and composure that this group is rapidly developing.
I have conducted concerts with my long standing groups in which I felt that I could interpret and mould the music in real time in order to create, for the listener and for the musician, a meaningful and artistic journey. In order to do this I need to trust my players and I need them to be totally responsive and confident.
On Saturday the orchestra made that sort of experience possible and we performed the music in a meaningful and engaging way.
The concert was well received and the audience were clearly moved at times.
From the point of view of the musicians? Well, they simply won't want to accept anything less in future!
From my point of view? Brilliant!!!
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John Brown - Audience Member
Just a quick note to say congratulations to NSWO on a fantastic Derby Cathedral concert last night. It's been a while since I've been able to get along to one of your recent outings and I had forgotten just how good you are. 'Mars - the bringer of war' was just incredible. The whole place shook. I was impressed with how you maintained the clarity of each note whilst still playing at that tremendous volume. Absolutely first class. It was an excellent programme and the acoustics in the room played right into your hands. One of the best concerts I've been to in ages. Keep up the good work.
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