A Soirée with the Labeques

Thursdays concert ‘A Soirée with the Labèques’ opened triumphantly with Berlioz’s ‘Le Corsaire’, the CBSO continuing the drama and energy throughout the work, with subdued tension in the Adagio, which was finally released in the fiery final movement. This energy was matched with the conductor’s unusual conducting style, an extrovert demonstration of large shapes combined with plenty of movement.
Following this was the introduction of the Labèque sisters, performing Debussy’s ‘En Blanc et Noir’. Their synchronous performance of the unison passages was stunning. The sisters captured the subtle interplay between pianos, showing a deep understanding for each other’s performance; also bringing visual splendour to the event, although some of the chords in the final movement looked more thunderous than they sounded!
Poulenc’s ‘Concerto for Two Pianos’ was without doubt the highlight of the evening; a rich cascade of colours and original sounds. The pianists handled the quirky virtuosity of the work well; particularly the repeated notes, as well as the sensitive pedalling that was used to imitate the gamelan soundworld. The orchestra handled the sparse passages in the opening movement delicately. The piece was not without small flaws however; the percussion seemed overly dominant at times, and a key moment in the first movement was marred by a trumpet misjudgment.
The second half of the programme was dedicated to music by Ravel, firstly ‘Mother Goose Suite’ which was as safe, if unadventurous interpretation. This was followed by ‘Bolero’. Always a crowd pleaser; the score had been approached with imagination and thoughtful direction, with a careful balancing of instruments. Special note should go to the solo trombonist whose solo lifted the audience’s spirits ready for the climactic ending to an enjoyable concert.