Estonian National Symphony Orchestra impresses at the Perth Festival

By David Smythe, 21 May 2023

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“Elts conjured a world of darkness and light with big clear flowing gestures”

Reviewed at Perth Concert Hall, Perth on 20 May 2023

Pärt, Cantus in memoriam Benjamin Britten

Rachmaninov, Piano Concerto no. 2 in C minor, Op.18

Dvořák, Symphony no. 7 in D minor, Op.70

Sibelius, Pelléas and Mélisande, suite for orchestra, Op.46: The Death of Mélisande

Tubin, Estonian Dance Suite (Setu tants)

Barry Douglas, Piano

Estonian National Symphony Orchestra

Olari Elts, Conductor

Oceanic swells, orchestral tangles: Baltic & Estonian Music Days

Lawrence Dunn, 28th April

The Estonian National Symphony Orchestra presents contemporary works, including three world premieres, by composers from across the Baltics.

***11

A subdued finale for Dvořák's Prague

Frank Kuznik, 23rd September

Nicola Benedetti provides all the fireworks in an understated outing by Neeme Järvi and the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra.

***11

Shadows and energy, ghosts and pomposity

Simon Cummings, 7th April

The Estonian National Symphony Orchestra under Kristiina Poska strain, discharge energy and ultimately make magic at the annual Estonian Music Days.

****1

Spring in Tallinn: sexy swagger and emotional devastation

Simon Cummings, 15th April

New works for orchestra from the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra directed by Anu Tali

****1

Estonian Music Days launches in Tallinn

Gavin Dixon, 10th April

The Tallinn National Symphony Orchestra Easter concert represents new music patronage on a grand scale. Six up-and-coming Estonian composers are commissioned write a substantial work for orchestra, and an entire concert is given over to their first performances.

Joseph Calleja with the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra in Helsinki

Bèla Bianca, 8th October

Tenor Joseph Calleja, conductor Giuliano Carella and the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra presented an interesting choice of repertoire on Monday. The composers were celebrated Italian and French masters of opera, and the programme alternated between overtures for orchestra and arias starring Calleja.

***11

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David Smythe

David the farmer was drawn into music through choirs, orchestras, taking part in and directing 'serious' opera as a student. Passionate about live classical music, particularly chamber opera, unusual pieces and events and giving the next generation the tools to engage with the classical world.