The Orpheus Chamber Orchestra rolled into Buffalo for a tune-up before their big Carnegie Hall concert. They played Mozart’s “Ballet Music from Idomeneo” which was a lively piece. Then came the surprise of the evening. Oboist Albrecht Mayer strolled onto the stage and transported the audience to Nirvana with Strauss’ “Oboe Concerto.” He followed that up with an encore from Bach’s “Cantata #156.” Plenty of standing ovations followed that performance! I bolted from my seat at intermission and ran to the lobby to buy Albrecht Mayer CDs and Orpheus Chamber Orchestra CDs. But they weren’t selling any CDs! Don’t these musicians know how to market themselves? Plenty of other audience members were ready to buy, too. What a missed opportunity! The second half of the concert started with Stravinsky’s “Eight Instrumental Miniatures.” It sounded okay, but it was a filler piece. Then the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra finished the concert with a spirited rendition of Mozart’s “Symphony No. 36 in C Major, K. 425 (“Linz”).” This is the program the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra will be playing tonight at Carnegie Hall. Very entertaining!
What a concert! You’re fortunate to have seats for the BSO season (or whatever it is). The Orpheus set is an excellent suggestion.
Patti was asking about cello music a while back, might this be the oboe recommendation? I’m ordering the Mayer CD now.
I ordered some Albrecht Mayer CDs when I returned home from the concert, Rick. I had never heard the Strauss “Oboe Concerto” before and it was wonderful! Plus, Albrecht Mayer is a talented performer. Don’t miss him if he performs in your area!
I’m seeing THE MESSIAH tomorrow. A birthday present to Phil. I hope it’s not the five hour version. Those seats are murder.
I’ve endured THE MESSIAH a few times, Patti, so I know what you’re in for. I’ve always preferred the “abbreviated” versions.
I have seen THE MESSIAH live on three occasions, and loved it every time. Come on, George, it’s great stuff, even if we do think of it as a war horse. Hey, think of it as a soundtrack, instead.
The five hour version of THE MESSIAH is more than my bladder can take, Rick.