Shrewsbury Orchestral Society

Concert Reviews

My Shrewsbury reviewer Andrew Petch enjoyed a Russian-themed programme of top quality music with world-famous pianist Peter Donohoe and the Shrewsbury Symphony Orchestra in the Alington Hall. Pictures by Andy Bell Photography

Two familiar Russian composers and a third whose name was new to many of the audience provided the music for Shrewsbury Symphony Orchestra’s concert in Shrewsbury School’s Alington Hall. Held in front of of a capacity audience, this was a triumph for the orchestra and their charismatic conductor John Moore.

Borodin’s overture Prince Igor opened the concert; there was some sprightly playing from the wind section and fine lyrical moments when the composer knew when to throw in a good tune!

The high point of the programme was the mighty Concerto no 3 in D minor by Rachmaninov in which Peter Donohoe was the soloist. Peter is simply one of the greatest pianists of the present era, having played with the greatest conductors and orchestras throughout the world.

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Peter Donohoe takes a bow - with SSO conductor John Moore. Credit Andy Bell

His knowledge and command of the work were magisterial and, from the opening notes, it was clear that a great deal of rehearsal had gone into this performance.

And the how the orchestra rose to the challenge!  John Moore’s relentless pursuit of excellence was on display; each section played superbly and their attention to tempo and dynamics was exemplary.

The concerto ranges from fragile, introspective beauty to unbelievably powerful playing and, throughout, Mr Donohoe’s playing brought out the very best interactions from the orchestral players.

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Apparently, after an early performance, a New York critic wrote, "Sound, reasonable music this, if not a great proclamation". Poor man! If only he’d lived to hear this wonderful performance."

The concert closed with Vassili Kalinnikov’s first symphony. The composer lived a mere 35 years. It is obviously the work of a young man, equally obviously a Russian composer. Like most 19th century musicians, the young man knew how to drop in a good tune; it’s a delightful work, full of glorious tunes and a wonderful virtuoso conclusion for the tympani player.

A very fine concert and another example of the orchestra's skill in programming. Shrewsbury should feel proud of this remarkable orchestra.