The Concert: A Dialogue between Emotions
The concert by the Barcelona and National Symphony Orchestra of Catalonia (OBC), which took place at L’Auditori, was an experience that explored the various facets of the keys of D, with the performance of virtuoso cellist Steven Isserlis under the direction of Jaime Martín.
D Major and D Minor: Emotional Duality
The concert programming established a fascinating contrast between the keys, with D major radiating optimism and vitality through Haydn’s Second Cello Concerto, while D minor adopted a more melancholic and reflective tone, as demonstrated by Cristòfor Taltabull’s Overture-Prologue and Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony.
Taltabull: The Forgotten Composer
The name Cristòfor Taltabull may not be familiar to many, but his work, presented at the concert, is a testament to his talent. As a prominent figure of musical Noucentisme, his Overture-Prologue, recovered by composer Josep Soler, delves into a sonority that evokes German influence and is reminiscent of Catalan Modernisme.
Steven Isserlis: A Cellist Full of Enthusiasm
The performance of Haydn was a key moment of the concert, with Isserlis radiating an infectious joy that made the audience feel part of the experience. His ability to connect with the audience was evident in every note, with smiles and gestures that conveyed his passion for music.
Shostakovich: A Reflection of the Historical Context
Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony took the audience on a darker and more disturbing journey, reflecting the tensions of the Stalin era. With an ominous introduction, the work served as a commentary on political repression, with a falsely optimistic ending in D major, evidencing the composer’s inner struggle.
The Conducting of Jaime Martín: A Musical Guide
Jaime Martín proved to be an exceptional conductor, bringing great depth to each piece with meticulous attention to detail. His ability to communicate with the musicians facilitated a cohesive and nuanced performance, turning every moment into an opportunity for emotional expression.
Final Reflections on the Musical Experience
The concert was a celebration of tones and the emotions they can evoke. The combination of works by Taltabull, Haydn and Shostakovich, performed with such passion, meant that the audience not only listened to music, but also lived an intense experience that will resonate in their memory.