Spaulding was sold out for this all-Beethoven program by the Dartmouth Symphony. Three great pieces, including my favorite piano concerto.
The program opened with the famous Coriolan Overture, short and stirring. I couldn’t help but think back to Robert Lepage’s Coriolanus last fall.
This was followed by the Emperor Concerto, with Sally Pinkas on piano. I was told that this was her first performance with the Dartmouth Symphony in 34 years. It seemed like she knew this piece really well, and enjoyed playing it. A well-deserved ovation followed this first part.
After intermission, it was time for Beethoven’s Fifth. Iconic, but the truth is that I hadn’t actually listened to it in a while, as I mostly listen to the 6th, 7th and 9th. So it was a real treat to hear it live, and appreciate what a great symphony it still is.
This was a truly enjoyable concert.