Gábor Takács-Nagy with Jean Efflam-Bavouzet at The Stoller Hall

Final concert of the season, featuring Manchester Camerata, conducted by music director Gábor Takács-Nagy with Jean Efflam-Bavouzet playing piano. Mozart Overtures K126, K196, K135. Symphony No 27 K199. Piano concerto Nos 5 and 6 K175, K238. 

Stoller Hall once again putting on a captivating programme of music written by Mozart, from the ages of 11 to 17 years old. We were stunned at how confident and assured the music was, really hard to comprehend how one so young could produce such fine work. 

Introduced by the conductor, with further interesting snippets about Mozart's life and writing as we went along. His enthusiasm for his work and engagement with the audience is most infectious. A truly engaging character and lively, committed conductor.

Most of the programme we had not heard before and it was delightful from start to finish, lively and fresh sounding, with the Manchester Camerata playing with breathtaking skill and clearly enjoying themselves executing each piece. A joy to watch and hear.  

The piano playing was truly a marvel, so complex, yet crystal clear and a superb foil for the orchestra. Again, another artist who clearly loves his work and was engaged with the music of the orchestra, even whilst not playing his own instrument ( a beautiful large grand piano ) The audience was hugely appreciative of the performance. Unforgettable evening. 

We  also noticed a group of older patrons with carers attending. They were introduced by the music director as residents of a care home that Manchester Camerata had played at recently, and they were attending that evenings performance. We were so impressed with how all the staff at the Stoller treated them with care and the whole group seemed to enjoy the performance immensely. 

What a great example of providing service to a group with complex needs. Well done to all involved. 

The Stoller is a beautiful venue, with perfect acoustics in the auditorium. Staff front of house, box office and hospitality and charming and helpful. Can't wait to return.

Christine Ince for Canal St Online.

More at The Stoller. 

Published: 9-May-2019 (5385)