World-renowned pianist Andre Watts joined the Utah Symphony Friday night for a performance of Saint-Saens' Piano Concerto No. 2 and Franck's Symphonic Variations for Piano and Orchestra. Playing with trademark finesse and polish, Watts gave concertgoers a treat.
Friday's program began with the delicately unfolding and highly descriptive "The Fountains of Rome," by Respighi. The Utah Symphony handled the dynamic range and color of this piece beautifully, although there were some ragged articulations in a few parts. Overall, however, the Debussian textures and vivid musical depictions of the various fountains in Rome came off very well.Andre Watts took the stage next with Franck's Symphonic Variations for Piano and Orchestra. With a reputation as impressive as Andre Watts' reputation, audiences rise to the occasion with equally high expectations. And as one might expect, Watts performed with polish, finesse, and technical brilliancy. However, he was almost too subdued in parts of this piece, giving the overall impression that the orchestra may have had more emotional vibrancy than he.
Watts showed more vigor in the next piece, Saint-Saens' Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor. From the resounding notes of the opening cadenza, through the rollicking second movement, and ending with the stormy and passionate third movement, this concerto presents a huge spectrum of mood. Both Watts and the Utah Symphony successfully followed this piece through its emotional journey with a polished performance, which evoked a standing ovation mid-program. Watts played some of the lyrical parts melt-in-your-mouth creamy while the virtuosic passages were dazzling. This concerto is always a treat, especially when performed well, as it was Friday.
The evening finished with a delightful performance of Enesco's Rumanian Rhapsody No. 1. At times saucy, at times light and almost always dancing, this rhapsody is just plain fun, especially with a zesty performance.