Werk: Drei Schattentänze für Klarinette solo (Three Shadow Dances for solo clarinet)

Jörg Widmann helms an exhilarating CBSO concert in Birmingham, making Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony sound brand new. 

In fragments and miniatures, the ensemble pieces were most satisfying, allowing Widmann not to build arguments but define subjects by contrast, showing a quick wit and a flair for suspense. 

Britten and Shostakovich were great friends, so it was appropriate that both composers were represented in the Belcea Quartet's two recitals on the opening weekend of the 70th Aldeburgh Festival.