Barenboim and Mehta

I am an American artist living part-time in Berlin. I have never written anything about a classical music concert, I do not have a sophisticated ear for music, and, in fact, I do not literally hear very well. But, I do know what I like and do not like, and what I experience.

This past Thursday, the 15^th of November, I attended a concert at the Philharmonie with Daniel Barenboim playing piano and Zubin Metha conducting the Staatskapelle. The presence of these two strong, dominant personalities provided a great energetic, anticipation from the audience. We were not disapppointed. Both Barenboim and Metha gave us what we wanted – an emotional, theatrical, masterful performance that had us on our feet at the end, expressing with great gusto our appreciation of their talents.

The evening began with Metha conducting Brahms’ Symphony Nr. 4. The music of Brahms, the control and passionate conducting of Mehta, and the playing of the Staatskapelle, were well integrated. The sensations generated were so palpable one could only smile with enjoyment.Then came Barenboim, always an interesting, riveting performer. He played Beethoven’s concerto for piano and orchestra Nr. 4 op 58, and Liszt’s concerto for piano and orchestra Nr. 1 Es-Dur 124. The delicacy of his touch and the utter passion of his playing were wonderful in both pieces. Barenboim literally was bouncing from his seat and his body shaking violently at the conclusion of the fourth movement of Liszt. One was reminded of the playing of Jerry Lee Lewis on Whole Lot of Shakin’ Goin’ On. The audience loved it and responded with an endless, standing ovation for Barenboim and Metha. The Staatskapelle joined also in the admiration for these two great performers. We all left the hall happy for the evenings experience.

— Frederic Ohringer