Nicola Benedetti's Concert Review: A Delicious Bite-Sized Musical Experience
The Scottish violinist Nicola Benedetti is living proof that, with dedication and practice, it's never too late to be on top of your game. As she embarked on her first major concert tour in a decade, the Royal Albert Hall was abuzz with excitement, eagerly awaiting the chance to experience her renowned talent. And experience it they did – in bite-sized servings.
Benedetti's supporting ensemble, consisting of cellist Maxim Calver, guitarist Plínio Fernandes, and accordionist Samuele Telari, proved to be an inspired combination. Together, they crafted intriguing sonorities that elevated the evening's entertainment. While some fine details got lost in translation, Benedetti's generosity and velvety phrasing made even the most delicate arrangements shine.
The setlist showcased a range of styles, from romantic salon pieces like Debussy's Beau Soir to traditional Scottish folk tunes. The latter was elevated by the addition of Fin Moore on smallpipes, which provided an atmospheric drone that perfectly complemented Benedetti's expressive playing. The encore, Peter Maxwell Davies's Farewell to Stromness, served as a nostalgic nod to Scotland's rich musical heritage.
But it wasn't all about warmth and nostalgia – Benedetti is still capable of delivering show-stopping performances. Her rendition of Wieniawski's polonaise was breathtaking, while her Paganini caprices left the audience in awe. A clever arrangement with violinist Emma Baird proved that even Sarasate's Navarra could be reimagined for modern ears.
Ultimately, this concert felt like a celebration – a testament to Benedetti's enduring talent and dedication. Though some moments may have felt like canapés rather than a full-course meal, the overall experience was far from lacking in flavour. One thing is clear: Nicola Benedetti remains one of the world's finest violinists, and her fans are in for a treat as she continues to tour and innovate.
The Scottish violinist Nicola Benedetti is living proof that, with dedication and practice, it's never too late to be on top of your game. As she embarked on her first major concert tour in a decade, the Royal Albert Hall was abuzz with excitement, eagerly awaiting the chance to experience her renowned talent. And experience it they did – in bite-sized servings.
Benedetti's supporting ensemble, consisting of cellist Maxim Calver, guitarist Plínio Fernandes, and accordionist Samuele Telari, proved to be an inspired combination. Together, they crafted intriguing sonorities that elevated the evening's entertainment. While some fine details got lost in translation, Benedetti's generosity and velvety phrasing made even the most delicate arrangements shine.
The setlist showcased a range of styles, from romantic salon pieces like Debussy's Beau Soir to traditional Scottish folk tunes. The latter was elevated by the addition of Fin Moore on smallpipes, which provided an atmospheric drone that perfectly complemented Benedetti's expressive playing. The encore, Peter Maxwell Davies's Farewell to Stromness, served as a nostalgic nod to Scotland's rich musical heritage.
But it wasn't all about warmth and nostalgia – Benedetti is still capable of delivering show-stopping performances. Her rendition of Wieniawski's polonaise was breathtaking, while her Paganini caprices left the audience in awe. A clever arrangement with violinist Emma Baird proved that even Sarasate's Navarra could be reimagined for modern ears.
Ultimately, this concert felt like a celebration – a testament to Benedetti's enduring talent and dedication. Though some moments may have felt like canapés rather than a full-course meal, the overall experience was far from lacking in flavour. One thing is clear: Nicola Benedetti remains one of the world's finest violinists, and her fans are in for a treat as she continues to tour and innovate.