OBSERVER: Gran Partita
The MSO’s Gran Partita concert was a celebration of all things woodwind. The first half comprised Strauss’ Sonatina 1 in F major under the direction of David Thomas.
Composed between 1941 and 1943, it serves as an introduction to a more modern sensibility of counterpoint and texture where composition was concerned. Whilst maintaining a lyric sensibility, there is a robustness in the 16 piece wind ensemble that builds in complexity.
The contrary motion between the oboes and bassoons is equally playful and majestic speaking to a romantic sensibility. Ironically, Strauss ignores the prevailing turmoil of the decade escaping into a musical world where the interplay between instruments provided intellectual relief.
The second half of the evening was Mozart’s, Gran Partita under the direction of Johannes Grosso. There is a more traditional conversation between instruments taking place in this work where the lyric motifs are threaded across parts echoing and resurfacing in a more traditional manner. Individual instruments are given their moments before, once again, merging with the ensemble.
What is of particular note is the unity amongst the instrumentalists in both halves of the evening. There is an understanding between the players of where the light and shade must fall whilst dealing with music that is technically demanding and emotionally charged. In this instance, Grosso and Thomas led from their chairs as players. A larger orchestra would have had a conductor. Players, thus, must be attuned to the whole not just for timing but for the overall balance and texture. Such was the accord between them that both the Strauss and Mozart were done equitable justice.
Review by David McLean