Canberra Symphony Orchestra and Chorus
Emma Pearson, soprano
Ashlyn Tymms, mezzo-soprano
James Egglestone, tenor
Adrian Tamburini, bass
Conducted by Jessica Cottis
Llewellyn Hall August 7
Reviewed by Len Power
Marking the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, the Canberra Symphony Orchestra (CSO) presented an exciting program that included not only the symphony but a world premiere of a work that took its inspiration from that symphony as well.
The evening commenced with Daughters of Elysium, a new work by New Zealand-Australian composer, Miriama Young. The work took its title and inspiration from Friedrich Schiller’s poem, An die Freude (Ode To Joy). The blissful conception of an afterlife, the glorious Elysian Fields held great significance in the ancient Greek imagination.
Commencing quietly with a heartbeat, the work was a journey through life, both dynamic and reflective, leading to a peaceful and thoughtful conclusion. The idea of universal sister/brotherhood was evident in this colourful and appealing work, and it was given a fine performance by the orchestra, conducted by Jessica Cottis.
Jessica Cottis
Joining the CSO was the large CSO Chorus. Tobias Cole was the Chorus Master. Soloists Emma Pearson, soprano, Ashlyn Tymms, mezzo-soprano, James Egglestone, tenor and Adrian Tamburini, bass all came with a formidable list of international credits. Jessica Cottis, with her own international reputation, was the conductor.
Emma Pearson and Ashlyn Tymms
The fourth movement with its strong beginning led the orchestra into the Ode To Joy theme and, from then on, the power of the soloists, chorus and orchestra together made this final part of the work an emotionally uplifting experience.
This was a memorable performance of the entire work, clearly bringing out Beethoven’s message of peace, joy and a united humanity. The numerous curtain calls and standing ovation were richly deserved. During one of the curtain calls, Jessica Cottis held up a copy of the music score and pointed to Beethoven’s name, bringing a resounding cheer from the audience. It was a fitting tribute for the great composer’s 200th anniversary of this work.
Photos by Arianne Schlumpp
This review was first
published by Canberra CityNews digital edition on 8 August 2024.
Len Power's reviews are also broadcast on Artsound FM 92.7 in the ‘Arts Cafe’ and ‘Arts About’ programs and published in his blog 'Just Power Writing' at https://justpowerwriting.blogspot.com/.