Shostakovich, Ravel, and Walton

I had to watch this broadcast in a hybrid manner: when it began at 8pm I still had another hour left of my return coach journey to Liverpool. Fortunately I have a generous data plan on my phone, so watching live on my tablet was not a problem, as long as the signal held up on the motorway. Luckily it did, so I was able to watch the first hour live. I caught up with the rest on iplayer when I

got home.

Tonight’s prom opened up with what I’d call a ‘jolly romp’ of Shostakovich. I have no idea if proper music aficionados would share my interpretation, but that’s what it was to my ear. Very pleasant indeed, and I’ve always paused to listen to this suite when it gets played on the radio.

Next up was the inspirational Nicholas McCarthy, playing Ravel’s piano concerto for left hand. I was glad to learn of the history of the piece, having being composed by Ravel specifically for pianist Paul Wittgenstein, who had lost his right arm during the First World War. 

It was great to hear McCarthy’s enthusiasm for opening up classical music to a broader audience, which he spoke of during his interview after the performances.

The Bournemouth symphony orchestra blasted out the show with William Walton’s epic and energetic symphony no. 1.

I only wished I could have still been in London to have witnessed this prom live. Alas, my Monday is calling!