My own delight was shared by many
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Weaving his spell: Conductor Viswa Subbaraman
Music Beyond Borders presented by the Symphony Orchestra of Sri Lanka featuring internationally renowned Pianist Marialena Fernandez and Conductor Viswa Subbaraman on February 7 at the Ladies College Hall
I write in response to a request not for a review, but for my own reflections on the concert of the Symphony Orchestra of Sri Lanka and the impact the music had on me as a member of the audience.
This ‘musical mix’, is the brainchild of Ambassador Nirupama Rao, who, in her eloquent delivery of the address given at this South Asian inaugural concert, declared that her foresight and vision was to bring musicians from different South Asian countries together on to a common stage and show how music can transcend whatever other boundaries we create for ourselves in the region.
At this concert, held at the Ladies College Hall on the 7th February, there were eight musicians from India who made music together with their Sri Lankan counterparts . In collaboration with and largely due to the untiring efforts of Sharmini Wettimuny, who shares a similar goal with Ambassador Rao and spoke with equal sincerity to the audience (no autocue either !) the evening of unadulterated joy was brought to fruition with the sharing of two renowned artists, the Orchestra and the support of many sponsors.
I hasten to stress yet again, that I am neither a music critic, specialist in style, nor in genres of music. This piece is essentially about how I was touched at a purely personal level by the music, which, as it happens, ignited a cocktail of emotion within me which will remain shaken and not stirred!
Music is a very personal experience, but judging from the hushed silence during and the rapturous ovation after, I can only guess that my own delight was shared by many. A platform had been made and the stage set, where a mutual passion for music could be shared and identified.
The expertise of Mariaelena Fernandez (born in Mumbai) at the piano, Viswa Subbaraman in the role of Conductor and members of the Orchestra, proved beyond any doubt, that music has the unifying power to bridge cultural gaps and language.
Mariaelena Fernandez acknowledging the audience
Mariaelena’s interpretation of the Mozart Piano Concerto No 27, was quite literally, music to the ear – a masterclass in technique and exquisite control. At times, she seemed to be carefully ‘plucking’ and caressing the key, coaxing the pianissimo expressive sections with a gentle touch and amazing tenderness. With the many dynamic types of shading, the contrasts in moods were clearly being handled by an expert. Her attack (especially with a powerful left hand) dealt admirably with the required fortissimo – sending out a loud and clear statement. Not only was Mariaelena’s rendition a joy to listen to, she looked a picture of grace and elegance, providing a feast for the eye, in addition!
Viswa Subbaraman in his role as Conductor, was quite riveting! Wielding an almost invisible baton, his individuality and agility, seemed to have the performers (and indeed, some of us in the audience) under a magic spell.
His inimitable style appeared to be packing a punch – first to the right, then to the left. These energetic intermittent ‘commands’ were interspersed with rhythmic knee bends, backward flips, sideways lunges and meaningful nods of the head, (none of which were distracting from the Score )whilst unfailingly maintaining the all important eye contact with the musicians. The end result, was an innovative brand of communication!
The quite charming gesture of ‘sharing’ with fellow musicians, a bouquet that was presented to him at the closing of the evening , was indicative of the fine quality of humility, over ability!
Although part of the programme was clearly a tough challenge for the Orchestra and some members were overtly more animated than others, their collective commitment and the joy of participation, came over loud and clear.
Having been transported ‘beyond borders’ on an incredibly musical journey, I suspect I will be waxing lyrical for a while yet. I wish to congratulate and extend thanks to all concerned, for the treasure amassed for my personal memory bank.
May the music of the Great Masters performed at the concert, continue for generations into new territory, uniting more than dividing, which will in turn, provide a healthy and peaceful blend of culture and shared music for the future.
Here’s to a continued bonding beyond borders when musicians from other countries will join as this Orchestra moves forward from strength to strength. If I might be permitted a slight play on words, may I conclude with what my own mantra has always been —- “music is the key to harmony”.
Christine