Tokyo Performances

Mahler's 8th

Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Eliahu Inbal
Tokyo Bunka Kaikan
April 28

Because the three performances were all sold out, I arrived early to get a chit which would allow me to buy a ticket, if any were turned in. However, a fellow had one to sell, and since the price indicated it was in the orchestra, I bought it. Only upon looking at it more closely did I realize that I would be in the second row center of this huge hall. Consequently, I was able to see nothing beyond the string players, although there was the bonus of being able to gaze at my favorite cellist.

Inbal has been chosen to be the principal conductor of this orchestra, which is good news. He is a first class artist, and he led the orchestra in a seamless performance.

Because of my seat, the sound was out of balance. On the plus side, I got to hear lines in the strings which go unnoticed in recordings. But not being able to see the soloists, chorus, winds, percussion and horns meant that I had to use my listening skills in order to not be overwhelmed by the strings. When all was said and done, it was a satisfying performance of one of my favorite works. The choir sang well - without scores - and the eight soloists were uniformly excellent, although the tenor sounded a little strained in a couple of his high notes.

I have learned a lesson: pay attention to where you will be sitting.

posted by Larry Wells @ 6:08 PM