Work: L'Arlésienne

Yo-Yo Ma returns to Pittsburgh for searing performance of Dvořák’s Cello Concerto. The enjoyable program also includes a tribute to Fred Rogers. 

Notwithstanding Esfahani and McKeish’s sterling account of the Poulenc and the orchestra’s thrilling take on The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, this was not a consistent enough concert to be called a complete success.

It was an evening for showing off. The Basel Chamber Orchestra (being Bartoli and Scholl’s frequent partners) performed Bizet and Rameau, plus a Mozart concerto with conductor Christian Zacharias directing from the piano.