Composer: Various
Works: Glinka: Ruslan and Ludmilla – Overture; Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1 in B Flat Minor Op. 23; Waltz from Swan Lake; Chopin: Waltz in D Flat Major Op. 64, No. 1; Mussorgsky: Prelude from Khovanshina; Gopak from The Fair at Sorochinsk; Rimsky-Korsakov: The Flight of the Bumblebee; Capriccio Espagnol Op. 34; Prokofiev: Death of Tybalt from Romeo and Juliet; Paul Lincke: Berliner Luft
Performers: Daniel Barenboim – piano; Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Zubin Mehta
Recording: Recorded live at the Waldbühne, Berlin, 29 June 1997; Video directed by Bob Coles
Label: TDK DVD – WBSPE
The 1997 concert captured at the Waldbühne in Berlin presents a vibrant tapestry of late Romantic and early 20th-century Russian music, orchestrated under the baton of Zubin Mehta. This performance showcases a selection of popular compositions that have become staples in the concert repertoire, making for a captivating evening that not only celebrates the technical prowess of the Berlin Philharmonic but also reflects the infectious spirit of an outdoor summer concert. The setting, a large open-air venue, adds an element of camaraderie and joy, which is palpable through the screen.
Zubin Mehta’s interpretation of the selected works is characterized by a buoyant energy, particularly evident in the rousing overture to Glinka’s Ruslan and Ludmilla. The orchestra’s unified sound in this opening piece is both crisp and full-bodied, demonstrating their exceptional technique and the clarity of Mehta’s direction. Each section of the orchestra shines, particularly the woodwinds, whose bright timbres pierce through the orchestral fabric with delightful precision. However, the rapport between Mehta and the musicians, while lively, occasionally lacks the depth of connection seen in other performances under different conductors, such as Mariss Jansons. The subtlety of phrasing in Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 could have benefited from a more nuanced approach, as Barenboim’s fiery interpretation occasionally veers into the overly emphatic, particularly in the climactic sections.
Daniel Barenboim’s performance is undeniably compelling, particularly in the first and last movements of Tchaikovsky’s concerto where the adrenaline rush is almost tangible. His technical mastery allows him to navigate the intricate passages with confidence, though moments of shakiness do emerge, hinting at the challenges posed by the high summer heat and the demanding nature of the work. The lush orchestral accompaniment supports him effectively, yet there are instances where the ensemble could have benefited from a tighter synchronization with the soloist, especially in the transition passages where the dialogue becomes crucial.
The recording quality of this DVD is commendable, capturing the expansive sound of the orchestra within the open-air venue. Bob Coles’ direction enhances the experience with imaginative camera work that draws the viewer into the festive atmosphere of the concert. The clarity of the sound allows the viewer to appreciate the intricate details of the orchestration, such as the shimmering strings and the robust brass sections, which are particularly striking in Rimsky-Korsakov’s Flight of the Bumblebee and Capriccio Espagnol. The engineering effectively balances the dynamic range, allowing the audience’s applause and enthusiasm to blend seamlessly with the performance.
The lighter pieces towards the concert’s conclusion, notably Paul Lincke’s Berliner Luft, foster a sense of joyous abandon among the orchestra and audience alike. Mehta’s playful baton-less conducting during this segment is not just a charming anecdote; it exemplifies the concert’s overall spirit of celebration and communal enjoyment, reminiscent of the more raucous atmospheres found in other summer concerts. The audience’s restrained yet enthusiastic engagement serves as a testament to the concert’s success in forging a connection between performer and listener.
This concert recording stands out as a delightful snapshot of a summer evening filled with robust performances of beloved orchestral staples. The combination of Mehta’s energetic conducting, Barenboim’s virtuosic pianism, and the Berlin Philharmonic’s technical prowess creates a vibrant atmosphere that is infectious. The engaging repertoire, coupled with solid production values, makes this DVD a worthy addition to any classical music enthusiast’s collection. The sheer enjoyment radiating from both performers and audience ensures that this is not merely a concert, but a celebration of life through music.
