Pablo Heras-Casado leads a ‘tour de force’ performance with the Los Angeles Philharmonic

11 Oct 2016

“Heras-Casado began the matinee concert with a light but crisp performance of Ravel’s delightful 8-minute Alborada del gracioso. It was a perfect aperitif that wafted through the hall like the cool breeze outside. The long bassoon solo was played wistfully by LA Phil Principal Whitney Crockett.

The first half concluded with a performance of Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G. The soloist originally scheduled was the French pianist Pierre-Laurent Aimard, but he had to withdraw because of a family emergency. Stepping in at the last minute was the Spanish pianist Javier Perianes. The two Spanish compatriots delivered a scintillating performance of the Ravel …

The major work on the program was Stravinsky’s The Firebird … The performance by Heras-Casado and the LA Phil was a tour de force. Let’s face it, the LA Phil is a great orchestra on par with the other great orchestras of the world, so it almost doesn’t matter who conducts them. Having said that, Heras-Casado did a superb job of recreating the fantasy of The Firebird. It was a captivating performance that showcased the musical prowess of many of the LA Phil principals and ensembles.

For those who only or mostly like to hear the LA Phil when Dudamel conducts, you’re missing some great up-and-coming young conductors. We’re likely to see (and hear) Heras-Casado again.”

Henry Schlinger – Culture Spot LA