COSM Ensembles

This was a Mozart-heavy program, but it started with Stravinsky—the Suite from L’Histoire du Soldat (arranged by the composer) for violin (Lauren Macbeth), clarinet (Grover Edwards), and piano (John McCauley). Mr. McCauley was also the conductor for the rest of the program. The Stravinsky had very good playing throughout, in general. The first movement was rhythmic and quirky, followed by a second movement that finished with a violin flourish. The third movement was a full-bodied, solid composition, followed by three dances (Tango-Valse-Rag) that were varied and pleasant. The suite finished with La Danse du Diable—devilishly vivace, almost frantic.

After intermission, we had J.S. Bach’s third Brandenburg Concerto (strings only); Exultate [sic*] Jubilate (Mozart) with soprano Ann Hoyt Wazelle; the Overture to Cosi fan Tutte (Mozart); an aria from Cosi; and the final movement of Mozart’s “Prague” symphony.

The Bach had a rather pedestrian tempo, with a few intonation problems—nothing major, just a bit of school orchestra sound. Sorry folks, I calls ’em like I hears ’em.

Exultate Jubilate was sung and played quite well. Ms. Wazelle’s sound was nicely projected into the hall, and her runs and coloratura were quite nice. The Cosi overture was one reason why I’m not a big Mozart fan. I’m not seeing the brilliance/genius there. Ms. Wazelle’s aria played nicely, until she botched the high note toward the end. She actually mimed “I’m sorry” to the audience and then sounded out the misfire during the applause for her rendition. Interesting and a bit amusing, but I say don’t be apologetic.

The Presto movement of the “Prague” symphony was really enjoyable, with some nifty woodwind playing. The first two movements of the “Prague” were omitted due to lack of rehearsal time. From the program notes: “All of the players in COSM are professionally trained, most of them playing professionally.” I found that the ensemble playing was a bit lacking, and that there seemed to be a wide range in professional ability.

Since there was extra time in the concert, the Cosi overture was repeated. I opted out—I’d had more than my fill of Mozart by that time.

ConcertMeister
*Most sources have Exsultate—your Latin, and mileage, may vary