Review: SZYMANOWSKI, CHOPIN & MAHLER, Barbican Centre

Presenting a diverse programme that showcases the brilliance of the London Symphony Orchestra, Sir Antonio Pappano guides the audience through Karol Szymanowski’s “Concert Overture” Op 12, Frédéric Chopin’s “Piano Concerto No 2 in F minor Op 21”, and Gustav Mahler’s “Symphony No 1 in D major”.

Szymanowski’s “Overture” is a bombastic curtain–raiser with a wild, complex opening that catches the audience’s attention. A sudden quiet intensity follows this thunder–striking opening, but the tension remains unbroken and culminates in a powerful final moment. It’s a spectacular performance; Pappano visibly enjoys every second, bouncing around the podium with infectious energy.

Wang's mastery of Chopin's challenging score is evident, particularly in the rigorous first movement. The second one is more forgiving, presenting lyrical beauty which Wang plays to perfection. The lively, almost cheeky finale rounds off the concerto with a flourish. Wang’s interpretation of the music is full of sensitivity to Chopin’s intricate dynamics and is nothing short of magnificent. She tops off her performance with three encores.

After the interval, Pappano delivers his take on  Mahler’s “Symphony No 1”. The symphony begins with a slow movement that is eerily potent as it gradually builds towards a mighty fanfare, which develops until it culminates in joviality. The second movement continues in this mood with a dance containing occasional humorous vigour. The third movement comes as a complete surprise as it evaporates the previous joviality with the flick of a switch. A funeral march, it repeatedly plays the melody of “Frère Jacques” in minor – a powerful motif that persists throughout. The final movement is highly complex: it starts out with great force and develops gracefully through alternating slower and more vigorous sections, until it finally ends in a heroic finish with a sense of triumph.

Pappano is top of his game as he once again proves he is a pristine fit as Chief Conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra. His leadership ties the entire evening together so seamlessly that it’s hardly surprising he earns a standing ovation.

Photo Credit: Mark Allan