Andris Nelsons
This was was a truly memorable afternoon at Symphony Hall, filled with interesting programming decisions and exciting revelations.
Saturday’s attendance hopefully warms the hearts of the BSO’s management. Not only was the house very full, but the assembly also included a healthy proportion of younger heads.
The BSO played with palpable enthusiasm. Andris Nelsons conducted with characteristic energy. There was, by the end of the evening, certainly, quite a bit about which to be happy.
At least waiting for Andris Nelsons to take over the orchestra is done. And we don’t have to bide too much time before we get to hear more from him: his first subscription series with the BSO kicks off on Wednesday.
Precision and obvious competence were only part of the story. What made this concert from The Young Artists Orchestra so special was the joy conveyed by these fledgling musicians.
To judge from the BSO’s responsive playing and the audience’s enthusiastic responses, director-designate Andris Nelsons can’t do much wrong these days. Of course, a decade ago, neither could James Levine.
Most of the programs during BSO conductor Andris Nelsons’ ten subscription weeks look fresh and, if not outright adventurous, on paper they at least look more exciting than not.
If “Salome” was a harbinger for what’s to come, we may be on the cusp of a golden era, indeed.
The selection of Andris Nelsons, 34, as the BSO’s next chief is an inspired choice and bold, and not just because of his age.
Music Commentary: Notable Classical Performances of 2014
It’s fun to recall what’s been played locally since January and be reminded just how rich the greater Boston area’s classical music scene really is.
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