On the evening of 4 June, elective music students had the privilege of attending a performance by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the Opera House, led by Principal Guest Sir Donald Runnicles. The first half of the concert showcased two works by Mendelssohn, both of which he began writing in 1830 – reflecting his Classical training and his transition into the Romantic style.
The orchestra opened with Mendelssohn’s The Hebrides Overture (‘Fingal’s Cave’, Op.26), a tone poem inspired by the composer’s journey to Scotland, shown through the evocative melodies. Despite being seated near the back of the Concert Hall, we were enveloped in the sweeping textures and oceanic swells that vividly evoked the rugged coastlines and dramatic landscapes of the Hebrides, setting a dramatic tone for the rest of the evening.
Following the Overture, Sir Stephen Hough then took centre stage as the crew pushed the magnificent Hamburg Steinway in front of the conductor’s podium. His performance of Mendelssohn’s first piano concerto (Piano Concerto No.1 in G minor, Op.25) was nothing short of mesmerising, clearly displaying Mendelssohn's Classical sensibilities infused with Romantic expressiveness. The concerto was notable for its seamless transitions between movements, a characteristic that departed from the traditional concerto format of the time. After the performance, I even had a few boys ask me whether I could distinctly make out the movements.
The first movement, Molto allegro con fuoco, opened with a vigorous piano entry, immediately establishing a dialogue between the soloist and the orchestra. The second movement, Andante, offered a lyrical contrast as the piano’s delicate lines weaved over the orchestra’s gentle accompaniment. Hough’s bold interpretation of the concerto’s sparkling scalic passages captivated the audience from start to finish. The final movement, Presto – Molto allegro e vivace, bursts forth with energetic rhythms and playful exchanges between the piano and orchestra, culminating in a spirited conclusion.
The synchronisation between the SSO and Hough was fascinating to say the least, as the orchestra stepped back under the guidance of Runnicles allowing for the melodic passages to reach every member of the audience. To the audience’s delight, Hough returned to the stage for an encore, delivering an exquisite rendition of Chopin’s Nocturne in E-flat Major, Op. 9 No. 2. His expressive use of rubato filled the Opera House with tenderness and introspection, providing a moment of stillness before intermission.
Following the intermission, the orchestra presented an Australian Premiere of Detlev Glanert’s Hidden Image: Contrafactum with Brahms. This contemporary piece doesn’t just “quote Brahms’ material literally, but instead explores the Brahmsian gestures, figures, motifs, and structural qualities that make up his musical language”. The opening gesture underpinned by the F – A flat – F motto of the Brahms’ Symphony, showcased the orchestra’s commitment to tradition through a contemporary lens.
The evening concluded with Brahms’ Symphony No.3. From the bold and assertive motif, the orchestra captured the grandeur and emotional sweep of Brahms’ mature style – immediately capturing the audience's attention. Runnicles guided the ensemble through the intricate layers of Brahms' composition, highlighting the dynamic contrasts and the rich textures that defined the symphony, from the noble heroism of the first movement to the bittersweet lyricism of the third. The concluding movement brought the symphony to a rousing finish, with the orchestra delivering the final passages with vigour and precision – even rousing some drowsy listeners who had grown perhaps too comfortable in the Opera House’s famously plush red seats!
The opportunity to witness world-class musicianship and the rich tapestry of Romantic music firsthand was invaluable. Conversations during the intermission and after the performance centred on the nuances of the compositions, the historical context of the works, and the emotional resonance conveyed through the music.
On behalf of all the students who attended, we would like to thank the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, as well as Head of Music Ms Barber and Ms Robertson, for providing such a memorable and enriching experience.
Jeddy S
Year 11 Music 2 Student