FLIGHT

Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra

Sunday 28 May 2023 St Paul’s Collegiate School Conductor: Joshua Kirk

Soloist: Kauri May

Programme:

Ritchie: Albatross in Flight

Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D minor

Beethoven: Symphony No.5 in C minor Op.67

Several hundred people braved wintery weather for Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra’s (TWSO) Sunday afternoon programme titled ‘Flight.’ From applause and comments overheard on departure, it was completely worth the effort.

The first of three compositions named ‘Albatross in Flight’ was written by renown Dunedin-based composer Anthony Ritchie. Commissioned by the Dunedin Sinfonia to celebrate their 30th Anniversary in 1996, Ritchie was inspired by an albatross soaring above Tairoa Heads on the Otago Peninsular. He also drew from the musical style of The Exponents to create this one movement orchestral fanfare.

Woodwind, brass and strings were beautifully accompanied by Yurika Arai’s timpani and percussion. Fanfares often feel too short, and so it was with this spectacular and thought-provoking four-minute piece. The gliding motifs and the melody danced around each other slowly building to an enchanting crescendo. Albatross in Flight was a fitting choice for New Zealand Music Month especially given the recent global news coverage of Aotearoa’s passion for protecting its birdlife.

Finnish composer Jean Sibelius’ work ‘Violin Concerto in D minor’ followed. Technically difficult and reserved for violin virtuosos, this concerto is an intense masterclass in dexterity and skill. Cue, Kauri May. A violinist from the age of three, with a degree in biomedical engineering from the University of Auckland, May began post-graduate studies in violin under the tutelage of Lara Hall at University of Waikato. She has won the Bach, chamber and concerto competitions, multiple scholarships and a full fellowship to play in the Miami Music Festival for a month.

Sibelius only wrote one concerto, and nearly 120 years after its first performance, May delivered it with precision. There was not a millimetre of violin that was not played, she drove the instrument to its fullest capabilities variously showcasing her vibrato, phrasing, double stops, and emotional depth.

Conductor Joshua Kirk allowed the sections to shine but none as brightly as his star, reining the orchestra in and allowing May and her violin to soar when the concerto demanded it. There appeared to be a real sense of supporting May’s performance from every corner of the stage. She seemed to thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to play this unparalleled piece with the TWSO.

The applause was voluminous and rightfully so. May and Celia Griffiths, concertmaster and Violin 1 section leader, prepared a short and sweet encore which they played on matching instruments. It was an unexpected and delightful conclusion to the first half.

The most famous of all musical motifs opened the second half of the concert, Ludwig van Beethoven’s ‘Symphony No.5 in C minor Op.67’. Complex and dramatic, the TWSO performed the symphony expertly with vigor. As the motif swept across the orchestra through the various movements, each section showcased their talents with vibrant harmonies, energy and emotion. Again, the applause was extensive.

Kirk, resplendent in a morning coat and mullet was charismatic and inspiring. Kirk managed to elicit a smile from each of the players throughout the performance, particularly during the symphony. He was animated without pulling focus and precise in his technique. Kirk was truly appreciative of his orchestra and the audience. As an aside, Kirk will be facilitating a conductor workshop in June, details available via the TWSO website.

Each of the pieces chosen for Flight provided the opportunity to marvel at the talent on display. The TWSO continues to deliver world class performances in Kirikiriroa. Long may it continue.

Remembering Ian Witten 1947-2023.