19 Jan 2008 Markus Gundermann, MPO, BakelsA second week in a row with Kees Bakels and the MPO revealed musical riches in the form of very nice (but off-beat) repertoire. The concert began with an evocative interpretation of the Calm Sea, Prosperous Voyage Overture by Mendelssohn. Another DFP premiere that we had was Robert Schumann's Violin Concerto. Written in his late years and put aside for about 100 years after his death, the piece is unwieldy in places and has some tawdry construction. It really needed a better violinist than MPO concertmaster Markus Gundermann, to do it justice. Although Markus played very well and was in tune mostly, the speeds tended to still be slightly sluggish and the lack of Schumann's musical inspiration showed through. (I had just listened to Kulenkampff's version on CD after the concert but before writing this review to realize what was missing in Markus' interpretation). Nevertheless, the highlight of the concert was a most deliciously played Schubert First Symphony led by the marvellous Kees Bakels. The interpretation was really wonderful for its light-heartedness and Austrian charm. Perhaps we could hear the Schubert Second and Third Symphonies by maestro Bakels in future concerts.
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