Articles by David Truslove

Melody and rhythm in abundance, with compelling performances from soloist and orchestra alike.

This was one of those absorbing discovery type recital programmes where links between the composers were both in and between the music. 

This all-English programme artfully combined Butterworth, Elgar and Anna Clyne – three composers a century apart yet tied together by poetic association.

A daring programme, with more than enough technical challenges which produced exciting, if uneven performances.  

Two composers at the opposite end of their careers form an interesting pairing but one that doesn't quite add up to a convincing whole. 

Strong, stirring performances from Sinaisky and the Bournemouth players offered few opportunities for reflection in a night of Beethoven and Elgar. 

Core repertoire from across nearly two centuries formed the basis of a recital programme that forged a link from Bach to Ravel.

The Belgium-based vocal ensemble presented a programme of vocal and choral delights from 17th century England with mixed results. 

Last Friday evening’s well-planned concert mostly produced some fine playing from both the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Benjamin Grosvenor but had the occasional misfire.

As this visiting orchestra from Saxony reached the closing stages of their 2 week UK tour they still had some terrific commitment and punch to their sound.

In a quirky programme featuring English, Welsh and Russian music the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales began their new season at St David’s Hall showcasing, with mixed results, their composer-in-association Huw Watkins, Elgar and three Russian composers at different stages in their careers.

Vladimir Jurowski and the London Philharmonic Orchestra produced an intriguing programme with some rare Taneyev, invigorating Tchaikovsky and fresh Sibelius.

A concert built on the work of composers from Britain, Finland and Latvia formed a rewarding programme of choral, vocal and orchestral music with several gems. 

Love and Passion provide a vibrant theme for an enterprising choral concert given by the Choir of Royal Holloway. 

The BBC Symphony Orchestra was on great form in an exciting evening comprising a concerto and three symphonic works.

A richly varied programme of Haydn, Barber and Shostakovich that mostly played to the strengths of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Beethoven may have been the main catch of the day for some but Sibelius, Leifs and Hillborg will have netted many new admirers thanks to Sakari Oramo.

The celebratory, cerebral and contradictory elements inherent in this diverse programme of Haydn, Mozart, Poulenc and Stravinsky didn’t quite disguise some uneven performances in Søndergård’s third prom concert.

Musical Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin inspired wonderful performances from the American players on the last leg of their European tour. 

Two classic scores by Berlioz and a musical memorial to Bliss’ brother made a deep impression.