Sun Sep 15 17:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Auckland Philharmonia Delivers Joyous Evening of French Music
**Auckland, New Zealand** – The Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, under the baton of French conductor Samy Rachid, captivated audiences Thursday night with a vibrant performance titled “Joie de Vivre.” The concert, dedicated to French and French-inspired music, offered a delightful sonic journey through a selection of renowned works.
The evening commenced with a spirited rendition of Ravel’s “Le Tombeau de Couperin,” transporting listeners into a mesmerizing whirl with its captivating prelude. Rachid expertly navigated the piece, highlighting the poignant and poised nature of the central movements, particularly the gently sighing minuet.
The program culminated in a spectacular performance of Poulenc’s “The Sinfonietta,” showcasing the orchestra’s dynamic range and infectious energy. The work’s scampish good humor and runaway finale left the audience thoroughly entertained.
A notable highlight was the performance of Toru Takemitsu’s “Three Film Scores for String Orchestra,” which echoed the Japanese composer’s admiration for the French master Olivier Messiaen. Rachid’s meticulous conducting, employing only his hands, brought out the rich and sometimes pungent harmonies of the piece, culminating in a captivating, throwaway waltz that solidified its French connection.
After a 36-year absence from the Auckland Philharmonia’s repertoire, Saint-Saens’ Piano Concerto No. 2 returned to the stage with a powerful performance by Swiss pianist Louis Schwizgebel. From the magisterial ruminations of the opening cadenza to the hearty galloping of the second movement, Schwizgebel and Rachid delivered a masterclass in musical collaboration, revealing premonitions of Rachmaninov’s emotive style.
The concert concluded with a captivating encore of Debussy’s “L’Isle joyeuse,” played by Schwizgebel, a reminder of the city’s yearning for solo recitals.
The Auckland Philharmonia’s “Joie de Vivre” concert was a resounding success, offering a captivating blend of French musical heritage and contemporary brilliance. The performance showcased the orchestra’s exceptional musicianship and the conductor’s masterful artistry, leaving the audience with a lasting impression of the power and joy of music.
First Piper 