Superb. Resonant. Phenomenal. These were just some of the words used by audience members to describe the Bedford Sinfonia concert on Saturday (24 January) at St Paul’s Church.
And those in attendance were delighted by a fabulous programme featuring all-female composers, conducted flawlessly by Ian Smith.
The concert (featuring works by Fanny Mendelssohn, Amy Beach, Ethel Smyth and Florence Price) was an eye-opener to even the most knowledgeable musicians in the audience, including Caroline, a very experienced violin teacher.
“The concert was an education. I didn’t know any of these works,” she said.
The performance began strongly with the ‘Wreckers’ Overture” by Ethel Smith. This piece told a story of conflict, wonderfully conveyed by the distinct melodies and the raw power of the brass section.
This was followed by Amy Beach’s Gaelic Symphony, which was one of the favourites of the night.
Audience member Ronald was especially impressed, saying: “Coming from Scotland, I could recognise familiar anthems in the piece.”
The symphony featured stand-out solos from the leaders of the violin and cello sections, Alex Collins and James Jarvis, who brought a personal touch to the lyrical third movement.
After this masterpiece, the captivating atmosphere of the performance gave way to sounds of joyful conversation – the interval. During this short time, it was great to see the interactions between people of all ages, united in a common love for music.
Following the break, the orchestra launched straight into Fanny Mendelssohn’s “Overture in C”, where the skill of the players really shone through in the perfect balancing of parts to do justice to a fantastically orchestrated piece of music.
The concert finished on an absolute high, with Florence Price’s “First Symphony”. Driven by the spectacular percussion section, this piece was, by all accounts, “very American”.
From the Dvorak-like harmonies of the first movement to the jazz-inspired third movement, the American influences were tangible throughout.
Recapping the night’s performance, first-time concertgoer Mark said: “It was a remarkable concert – I would certainly encourage others to attend.”
Make sure not to miss the next Bedford Orchestral Society concert on Saturday, 28 February, featuring the renowned Sibelius Violin Concerto.
For further information and tickets, visit bedfordsymphony.com.
By Elias Demetrius-Louisy
Bedfordshire Orchestral Society Youth Ambassador
