Sibelius Comes Alive at Tanglewood: A Soloist's Masterful Performance

LENOX, Massachusetts - The Boston Symphony Orchestra's performance at Tanglewood on Sunday afternoon offered a vibrant and captivating presentation of two renowned compositions by Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Originally planned as a full Finnish event led by Esa-Pekka Salonen, he had to step down approximately one week prior. Despite this change, the schedule remained intact, and British conductor and composer Thomas Adès delivered commendable performances at very short notice.

Renowned violinist Pekka Kuusisto, who shares a homeland with Sibelius, delivered exquisite elegance and warmth in his performance of the composer's Violin Concerto in D minor, Op. 47. As Kuusisto entered the stage, he did so with an assured confidence, evoking memories for some spectators of Salonen during his youth—somewhat bold in style yet undeniably gifted. Pekka Kuusisto, a fellow countryman of Sibelius, showcased remarkable grace and sensitivity in interpreting the composer’s Violin Concerto in D minor, Op. 47. His entrance onto the platform exuded self-assurance, reminiscent of how Salonen once carried himself when young—a bit audacious in manner but clearly backed by exceptional skill. The violin soloist Pekka Kuusisto, hailing from the same nation as Sibelius, presented profound beauty and emotional depth in performing the composer's Violin Concerto in D minor, Op. 47. Upon taking the stage, Kuusisto moved with a poised confidence that echoed the youthful energy of Salonen—an attitude that was somewhat daring, yet fully supported by undeniable musical ability.

Concert review

The Boston Symphony Orchestra performs works by Jean Sibelius. The Boston Symphony Orchestra interprets compositions from Jean Sibilus. Jean Sibelius's music is performed by the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The Boston Symphony Orchestra presents pieces composed by Jean Sibelius. Works of Jean Sibelius are played by the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday

Where: Tanglewood, 297 West Street, Lenox, Massachusetts

Length: Two hours, one intermission

More info: 413-637-5180 and bso.org

Frequently, the violin solos in the concerto remain within a soft volume level, which Kuusisto completely mastered, delivering performances that were both distinct and immediate, making the sequences of ascending intervals and descending scales simple to follow. Engaging with Adès conducting, extended sections seemed like a practice in cultivating silence.

Kuusisto's final bow occurred during the third round of applause, featuring a quick and powerful performance of a traditional Finnish folk dance, intertwined with playful modern touches at the end.

Sibelius' Symphony No. 5 in E-flat, Op. 82, which was played following the break, has grown into an established favorite within the musical canon. Its refined melodies, overlapping counterpoints, and powerful crescendos lived up to expectations. Exceptional performances were delivered by associate principal clarinetist Thomas Martin and the entire group of brass players.

Adès has completed his 10th season working with the BSO, bringing an air of urgency and a particular depth of understanding as a composer to his conducting role. While the orchestra sometimes appeared to be moving ahead independently, Adès remained firmly in control during the critical moments of the composition. He poured every bit of himself into those last six hesitant chords, each one framed by silence.

The performance opened with an enduring composition tied to this land. Gabriella Smith's "Tumblebird Contrails," a tonal painting influenced by a Californian shoreline, commenced with layers of rubbing sound from unexpected musical instruments, evolving into a rich and heartfelt vibration.

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