Canberra International Music Festival  Concert 11: “Mozart – A Perfect Love”

Lalezar Hall, Turkish Embassy, May 15

Reviewed by Ian McLean

HOW grand it may have been had the capacity audience at this epitome of very chamber-like venues (Lalezar Hall at the Turkish Embassy) been dressed in 18th Century finery to totally indulge in the atmosphere created by the classical period instruments which featured throughout this concert.

A stirring and spirited reading of Mengal’s arrangement (for wind quintet) of Mozart’s violin sonata set the scene.

Wonderfully sonorous, the oboe of Ofer Frenkel and bassoon of Benny Aghassi were outstanding as was the ability of the entire quintet to maintain a balance which allowed every line to penetrate as intended.

Just a ragged phrase ending or two detracted from a perfect performance.

Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet was also well balanced and delicate. Craig Hill produced a rich and creamy tone which, combined with amazing technical brilliance, shone beautifully through the masterful, and oh so neat, strings.

Back to the stately drawing room for an impish performance of Beethoven’s Variations on Mozart’s “Don Giovanni”.

Again characterised by exceptional dexterity and tonal quality the Osmosis Trio captured the essence of the light hearted romp seamlessly and to the delight of all present.

The evening ended with a splendid performance of Mozart’s Serenade for two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons and two natural horns and once again these fine players (I’m in awe of the bassoons!) presented an aural opportunity to appreciate, in their natural state, the sounds our ancestors heard.

The only quibble in a concert of musical mastery was the placement of the performers.

At floor level poor sight lines denied many of the audience the opportunity to see the players and their fascinating instruments.

A more than ample stage was available, audience enjoyment would have been enhanced considerably had it been utilised.

An old adage says that audiences (even sophisticated and musically educated ones) listen with their eyes.

This concert was dedicated to the memory of Canberra music-lover and the founder of Early Music Enterprises, Jill Downer.