Northwest Sinfonietta - Beethoven Revealed

The Northwest Sinfonietta opened the 2007-2008 season last night with a stunning first performance of the series Beethoven Revealed, showcasing the works of Beethoven, his contemporaries and successors.

Led by maestro Christophe Chagnard with a confidence and grace that becomes a dance in itself, the 35-piece orchestra played to perfection classical music compositions by Rossini, Mozart and Beethoven.

The program opened with L’Italiana in Algeri by Rossini and provided a wonderful introduction to the enlightening musical journey in which the night would provide.

This was followed by the Piano Concerto no. 11 by Mozart. Critically acclaimed pianist Byron Schenkman joined the orchestra lending his innovative approach and tremendous skill, to the joy of the audience, and worked in complete synchronicity with the maestro to provide an exquisite performance of this master’s work.

For me, the highlight of the evening was the third and final piece of music: Symphony no. 4 by Beethoven. Chagnard introduced Beethoven as “the grace and the fury” in an eloquent synopsis of the background of the composition and composer, sharing his passion and enthusiasm for the music performed; a passion which translates through musician to audience seamlessly. The Sinfonietta performed an intriguing glimpse into the grace and fury Chagnard described. The enthusiasm in which the musicians played this piece conveyed beautifully in the music and piqued my appreciation for Beethoven as a composer.

I left the venue in euphoria, simply craving more. Thankfully this was only the first installment in a series of four programs.

The Northwest Sinfonietta performs the above program this evening at the Rialto Theater at 7:30pm.

Link to the Northwest Sinfonietta Season Information

Wes Tateo has worked downtown for three years closely associated with Black Water Cafe. His passions include music, art, espresso and travel.