Elgin Symphony, with Robert Hansen
ESO, Chiu simply wonderful
By Barbara Vitello Daily Herald Staff Writer
Like hit singles on a top-selling CD, some concerto themes attract more attention than others.
In the case of Tchaikovsky's Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, the
honor goes to the familiar introduction known as "Tonight We Love." But there is much more to this characteristically romantic concerto, as the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and guest soloist, pianist Frederic Chiu demonstrated Friday.
Neither Chiu nor the orchestra, under the direction of Robert Hanson, sacrifice sentiment for spectacle in this virtuoso's showpiece that leaves few lulls for the soloist.
A commanding artist -- whose fingers were a blur racing up and down the keyboard -- Chiu also proved a fine accompanist, especially in the delicate second movement.
The concerto demands technical brilliance throughout, but especially in the third movement, performed at a blazing tempo that left the audience breathless at its conclusion.
As if that weren't enough, Chiu returned to perform Louis Moreau Gottschalk's rollicking "Grande Tarantelle," another virtuoso piece that reflects its Italian title.
Monday, October 6, 2003