CBSO/Yamada review – apocalyptic and soul-shaking Mahler opens the season

By Clive Paget · The Guardian Culture

Symphony Hall, Birmingham Orchestral discipline was tight and solo contributions distinguished in Kazuki Yamada and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s finely judged interpretation of Mahler’s transcendent Resurrection Symphony Mahler’s apocalyptic Second Symphony is a popular season opener these days, a reliably emotional experience guaranteed to pack them in with a message of hope that transcends the overtly Christian message underpinning its finale. It was a good choice for the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Kazuki Yamada, a conductor who combines theatrical vision with a keen instinct for orchestral colour. This was a bold reading from the outset. Yamada indulged in a massive intake of breath after the initial rush of cellos and basses before permitting the orchestra to proceed. The opening march was slow and steady, a treacly elasticity releasing its pent-up energy in colossal, delayed climaxes. The first movement was high on extremes, from overwhelmingly noisy to breathlessly hushed; from drawn-out funereal to foot-on-the-gas urgent. Orchestral discipline was tight and solo contributions distinguished. The blend was never less than acceptable, though a mid-symphony pause to retune was a good call. Continue reading...