The well-spoken leader of the ensemble pronounced, ’We don’t need the violin section’ to a packed theatre, which raised a laugh in the audience and set the feel for an uplifting, fun and enjoyable concert. He gave an overview of the afternoon with some explanations about the variety of pieces.
The first item was frenetic, rhythmic and flowing with use of the full range of tone produced by a cello. It was a response to the market places in Spain. The volume was impressive as were the acoustics of the lively theatre. My friend was astounded that there was no electricity involved in producing these beautiful sounds that resonate through one’s whole being.
The incomplete Bach work was wonderful – characterized by deep, breezy tones and interesting that something considered unfinished could be so satisfying. The popular Zepplin tune was certainly a crowd-pleaser with a melody that may well have been taken from somewhere else in history of music. We were introduced to the musicians, which included eight of the cellists from this list: John Benz; Ezmi Pepper; Steve Meyer; Caroline Hobbs; Michael Bardon; Julienne Guerbois; Emily Palethorpe; Jessica Quarmby; Sally Schinckel-Brown & Paul Taylor. Their cellos were superb with contrasting colours from sienna to burnt umber and obviously varying ages from old to new. Their cases looked like they could withstand a severe hurricane.
The jazzy Shostakovich number was written in 1959 despite popular belief it was written many years earlier. Here the intensity was stepped up with accurate plucking, speed and vibration. A change of pace happened when there was a slow start in The Pilgrims Chorus by Wagner, sustained by sublime classic mid-range tones that epitomize the cello.
The showed zoomed past without an interval, which was fine, as we had been treated to a scrumptious afternoon tea beforehand. Nothing Else Matters was much better than seeing Metalica play this tune because it could be heard rather than the dreadful noise at a rock concert. The Piazzola tango was exciting and dynamic. Lollipop was great – one of those tunes you know you know but find hard to identify. I liked hearing Kashmir again too. Walking on and off the stage with those priceless instruments sure takes a lot of courage and skill.
David Manuell – Theatre Now
Sketch also from the talented David Manuell
The Cellists of The Metropolitan Orchestra with Afternoon tea, Sunday afternoon, September 30, 2018, The Independent Theatre, North Sydney.
Set List:
- Two Spanish pieces by Brian Kelly
- Contrapuctus number 1 from the Art of Fugue by Bach arranged by John Benz
- Dolorosa from Sabat Matar by Pergolesi
- Kashmir by Led Zepplin
- Waltz number 2 from Suite for Variety Orchestra by Shostakovich
- Pavanne for a Dead Princess by Ravel
- Pilgrims Chorus from Tannhauser by Wagner
- Nothing Else Matters by Metalica
- Libertango by Piazzolla
- Encore:Lollipop from The Chordettes (late 50’s) and Kashmir again
