Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto

Many amazing musicians have graced the stage at Abravanel Hall over the years but I don't think I have ever felt such a palpable excitement in the audience as I did last night for soloist Nemanja Radulovic!  In fact, before the concert began a member of the orchestra told me that I was in for a treat and that ended up being an understatement!  Changes had to be made to the original program because of Covid so the orchestra, under the baton of guest conductor Alexandre Bloch (who was almost as charismatic as Radulovic), began with Pavane by Gabriel Faure and I loved it!  It is based on a Spanish court dance from the sixteenth century and it is very delicate and airy with beautiful themes by the flute.  Then Radulovic joined the orchestra for Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto which is one of my favorite pieces by one of my favorite composers!  I love Tchaikovsky because, in my opinion, his music is very emotional and this piece is no exception because it is incredibly passionate.  I especially love the second movement because it is just a little bit mournful with a beautiful theme played by the solo clarinet.  But, honestly, it was hard to pay attention to any instrument other than the solo violin!  Radulovic gave such a dynamic performance that he was spellbinding!  I literally couldn't take my eyes off of him as he played faster and faster and with more and more intensity!  I don't think I have ever heard this piece played better (the audience agreed with me because Radulovic received a thunderous standing ovation after the first movement).  It was thrilling, to say the least, and I am positive that this performance will be a highlight of the 2022-2023 season!  After the intermission, the orchestra played Felix Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4 "Italian."  This piece was written in response to the impressions Mendelssohn had while taking a ten month journey through Italy.  I particularly enjoyed the woodwinds in the first movement, the militaristic fanfare played by the horns in the second movement, and the energetic conclusion.  This is a Utah Symphony concert that is not to be missed and there are even $20 rush tickets available for tonight!