TONY COOPER Snape Maltings

TONY COOPER

Snape Maltings

A touch of Russian magic cast its spell over the Maltings in the opening concert, with the Britten-Pears Orchestra, conducted by Alexander Polianichko, on good form. Two works by Prokofiev were heard: Lieutenant Kije, always a joy to listen to, while Belgrade-born pianist Aleksander Madzar set the keyboard alight in a demanding and dazzling display of the third piano concerto.

Orchestral dynamics continued in Stravinsky's Firebird Suite, performed in the 1919 version, in which

the orchestra excell-ed themselves.

Blythburgh church provided a perfect and contemplative setting for the vocal ensemble, Exaudi, who treated us to a stunning and moving programme.

The Sixteen rounded off the weekend with an enlightened programme entitled Sistine Treasures, conducted by Harry Christophers in his usual flamboyant and theatrical way.

The last word goes to Polyphony and Stephen Layton in their performance of the St John Passion. It was simply brilliant. Full

stop!