Concert review: Stella Chen (violin) Orchestra of St Luke’s/Nicholas Mcgegan

Continuing the sixth annual Bach Festival presented by the Orchestra of St Luke’s in Carnegie Hall, this, the fourth of five concerts, featured violinist Stella Chen and Baroque specialist Nicholas McGegan.

The programme opened with a pair of Mozart movements for violin and orchestra – the K261 Adagio and K373 Rondo. The intensity of Chen’s sound immediately grabbed the ear and was compelling in the Adagio, even if I would have preferred a slightly lighter approach to the Rondo.

Bach’s Second Orchestral Suite followed, featuring OSL flautist Elizabeth Mann, who performed quite brilliantly, with superb articulation throughout. Of the string players, some used Baroque bows while others didn’t, but the ensemble achieved a fairly unified sound nevertheless. The stately Menuet was a highlight – filled with character – before the final Badinerie, which was fast and furious. McGegan could not have been having more fun!

Chen rejoined the orchestra after the interval for Bach’s A minor Violin Concerto, which she played with imagination, especially in the outer movements. The Andante was perhaps a bit over-stylised for my taste, but her sound was quite beautiful. The final Allegro assai had a sparkling energy – with Chen clearly enjoying herself. Mozart’s Symphony no.29 closed the evening and was skilfully shaped by McGegan – his intelligent approach made for a well-crafted and elegant performance.

LEAH HOLLINGSWORTH