2010.2.11. Brahms' Piano Quartet No. 1

Seattle Symphony with Stephan Jackiw.

Barber: Medea’s Meditation and Dance of Vengeance, Op. 23a
Barber: Violin Concerto, Op. 14. Stefan Jackiw, violin
Brahms: Piano Quartet No. 1 in G minor, Op. 25 (arr. by Schönberg)

The first movement of Barber's violin concerto is absolutely beautiful. Our young star loves to show off and makes too much unnecessary facial and body movement. He played a solo Bach as encore. Pretty nicely done. The other discord Barber's piece requires a huge orchestra including a piano and harp. 4 guys on percussion. The stage is filled to the rim. Schönberg's Brahms is louder and more colorful. No piano. The first 3 movements all start with power and end with tenderness. The last movement is short and joyful. The house is only half full. A pity.