The Musicus Soloists of Hong Kong, an ensemble formed in 2022 under the Musicus Society led by renowned cellist Trey Lee, recently graced the Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall with a performance that was as unique as it was enthralling. The young ensemble’s choice of repertoire spanned from rarely played pieces by Grieg and Sibelius to the contemplative works of Arvo Pärt, culminating in a strings-only rendition of Grieg’s famous Piano Concerto, led by pianist Louis Lortie.
Despite a few initial hiccups, such as the tonal challenges faced by the first violinists in Carl Nielsen’s Little Suite for Strings, the ensemble quickly found its stride. The Intermezzo movement’s waltz flowed effortlessly, and by the finale, the group’s performance had gained poise and expansiveness, particularly impressive in the viola section.
The concert’s highlight was the Sibelius pieces, which the Musicus Soloists executed with palpable joy and affinity. The romantic influences in Sibelius’ Romance in C and the contrasts in his Impromptu for String Orchestra were particularly striking, showcasing the ensemble’s growing confidence and musical maturity.
Arvo Pärt’s “Fratres” was another standout, with violinist Angela Chan delivering a mesmerizing performance that captivated the audience with its ethereal quality. The piece’s alternating intensity and stillness were masterfully executed, complementing Pärt’s philosophy of balance between instant and eternity.
The evening’s surprise was Grieg’s Piano Concerto, performed with a string orchestra and directed from the piano by Louis Lortie. This unconventional approach initially raised eyebrows but quickly dispelled any doubts. The ensemble adeptly filled in for the absent wind, brass, and percussion, while Lortie’s dynamic piano solo brought depth and drama to the piece. The piano’s unusual positioning may have influenced the sound’s percussiveness, but Lortie’s performance in the Adagio was celestial, and the finale’s interplay of romantic swells and passionate surges with Lortie’s piano was nothing short of captivating.
Musicus Soloists’ performance was a testament to the power of innovation in classical music, demonstrating how a deviation from the norm can bring a refreshing and successful reinterpretation of beloved works. Their concert was a significant contribution to Hong Kong’s classical music scene, highlighting the potential of new ensembles to offer fresh perspectives and enrich the cultural landscape.
READ MORE: