An excellent program saw a disappointing turnout at Thália Szinház on Wednesday (9 June) for what turned out to be a rather special occasion. András Keller conducted his Concerto Budapest (the former MÁTAV SO) in Haydn and Mozart.
The orchestra were in sparkling form – some of the most impressive ensemble playing around these days – and Keller had a firm grasp on all the pieces. The evening began with something of a rarity – Haydn’s Scherzando, Hob.II, No.4. Not previously known by this reviewer, it is a sort of ‘mini-symphony’ with many delightful touches, beautifully played and directed. Much more familiar territory with the final piece of Haydn, the wonderful 104th Symphony. The amazing freshness and originality of this piece coming from the pen of a master in his last years is astonishing. It requires and, on this occasion, received a performance of vitality, humour and humanity. It is an undoubted masterpiece and performances of this level are to be relished.
The Haydn acted as ‘bookends’ to the centrepiece – not one but two Mozart piano concertos. Alexei Lubimov, now in his mid sixties, is a fine interpreter of this music. Once a champion of 20th century western music in the former Soviet Union, for which he was frowned upon by the authorities and his options restricted, he began to focus on authentic performances of the classical repertoire. Since the changes, he has become a well known figure as soloist with period instrument groups.
As you might expect, this makes for performances of crystal clarity, acutely observed and sharply realised. Lubimov did not disappoint. The E flat concerto, K.271 came off splendidly with bright and brilliant keyboard work supported by sensitive accompaniment. After the interval, in the later C major, K.415, there were occasional lapses of technique – perhaps two concertos in one go is just a bit too much – but they were quickly recovered. These things happen in live performance and one should not be too critical. In the great scheme of things they are trivial. What matters is the overall vision, the sheer musicianship. Lubimov triumphed overall and was rightly rewarded with enthusiastic approbation.