Dear Fabulous musicians and friends of the Bardi Orchestra,
I am still smiling from ear to ear as I relive the wonderful concert last Sunday. I meant what I said: it is genuinely wonderful to return to the orchestra and find it in a better shape than before.
Firstly, there’s the music making. This was not an easy concert by any yardstick. With your commitment, enthusiasm and skills, we managed to overcome what is a challenging schedule even for a top-flight professional orchestra: I think the result, and the well-deserved ovation, spoke for what a great success it was. I was struck over this rehearsal process how much the orchestra – like a wine that has had space to breathe – opened up. I very rarely had to speak about dynamics or shape, for you were all incredibly sensitive to every gesture from the podium. I know I challenged you in other ways in rehearsals: we worked fast, we changed bowings, and we didn’t run the symphony on the concert day. Not only did you meet those challenges, by the end it felt like we have always worked this way.
Then there’s the impressive work happening “on the other side of the curtain”. It was heartening to see such a great audience. The orchestra’s publicity and ambition continues to go from strength to strength. I am in no doubt that Bardi is a great success story in the country’s musical landscape.
Thank you for having me, and for allowing me to play a small part on your impressive upward trajectory. I can’t wait until our paths may cross again!
With huge respect and admiration,
Jonny