BBC National Orchestra of Wales I: Colin Currie

“You know how it is when someone asks you to ride in a terrific sports car, and then you wish you hadn’t?”  This is John Adams on his famous Short ride in a fast machine. It is spirited and utterly joyful – with an exhilarating touch of danger.

The first movement of Shostakovich’s Symphony No.10 feels like a long ride in a machine of a very different kind: political, oppressive, potentially deadly. It was premiered in 1953, a few months after the death of Stalin, but conceived during the fear and terrible uncertainty of his reign. The mighty opener is followed by furious march, a macabre waltz, and a conclusion in which Shostakovich hammers out his own musical motto in a howl of defiance.

Percussionist Colin Currie has collaborated with many contemporary composers, keen as always to expand the solo percussion repertoire. The prospect of Tansy Davies’ new Percussion Concerto is mouthwatering indeed.

This performance is kindly supported by the Maria Björnson Memorial Fund.

BBC National Orchestra of Wales
Colin Currie percussion
Kevin John Edusei conductor