Norfolk Symphony Orchestra
ALISON CROOSE King's Lynn Corn Exchange
ALISON CROOSE
> King's Lynn Corn Exchange
A new season began with a set of surprises as the orchestra maintained its tradition of exciting programming combined with accomplished musicianship.
As ever the stage was packed with musicians and the auditorium packed with concert-goers who were not disappointed by a programme – drawn from the late 19th and early 20th centuries – which was full of interest and executed in style under the direction of James Stobart.
The stirring notes of Finlandia depicting the nationalist fervour of Sibelius's music gave the concert a powerful opening, paving the way for Dvorak's Violin Concerto featuring award-winning Laurence Jackson who has forged a career both as a soloist and a chamber musician.
He demonstrated his skills in a work demanding great delicacy and sensitivity with its lyricism and Bohemian charm, building up to a series of vigorous folk dances in the lively finale.
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The subtleties of Dvorak contrasted starkly with the ear-splitting sounds of Shostakovich's tenth symphony written in the sombre atmosphere shortly after Stalin's death.
Stobart gave full rein to the menacing power of the music reflecting injustice and persecution, and exploited the composer's lighter touches which make his works so exciting.
