Valery Gergiev/Mariinsky Orchestra ****
Cadogan Hall, 5th November 2018
There’s no denying the chemistry between Valery Gergiev and the music of Tchaikovsky. The Mariinsky chief seems to have the innate ability to channel Pyotr Ilyich’s very soul, especially in the doom-laden chasms of the Fifth Symphony. From the resignation of the clarinet’s plum-dark introduction, it was clear exactly where we were heading. When Fate comes knocking at the door, Gergiev flings it wide open and invites it in for a samovar of tea. It’s that total embrace of the music – like a bear hug – which struck me most on this latest Mariinsky visit to Cadogan Hall.
Valery Gergiev
© Alberto Venzago
Read the full review on Bachtrack.