MSO’s Harold in Italy showcases virtuosic viola

MSO | POETRY IN MUSIC

August 19, 2022, Hamer Hall

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
Jaime Martín conductor
Christopher Moore viola

Berlioz, Harold in Italy

Coffee, laneways, Chris Moore playing viola. Melbournians love them all. We’ve even (almost) forgotten that for a good 10 years he left our beloved MSO to tour with the Australian Chamber Orchestra. It just feels right that he’s back leading the viola section, or like this week, taking on a well-deserved role as soloist.

Berlioz’s ‘Harold In Italy’ does have a problem. As Paganini put it, it has too many rests. It’s not a traditional concerto but we need something to showcase master viola players. Berlioz describes it as a symphony with obligato viola and tonight it really did shine a light on all sections of the orchestra. Having the work start without Moore on stage had more than a few audience members worried. He entered from the floor of the stalls and walked up the stairs onto stage to introduce the main theme. Moving through the orchestra to play from various positions added a theatrical element, but more importantly visually highlighted sections of the musical narrative. Playing a good part of the first movement standing next to the harp brought out the chamber music sections and sensitive dialogue with both the harps and winds. Some parts were played from the traditional position next to the conductor, but he also moved back between the bassoons and rear of the cello section, and finally played from the balcony.

This was the first time I have seen chief conductor Jaime Martin direct and I’m excited for the future of the MSO under his baton. During sections of the work he was content to get totally out of the way and let Moore and the various sections do their thing. At other times his command, gestures and leadership means the audience can’t take their eyes off him. I could watch Martin conduct with the volume turned off and still be mesmerised. Conversely though, if you shut your eyes, the energy that he inspires within the orchestra can easily be heard.

Christopher Moore has an ability to play at the highest level but also to communicate with an audience. There was palpable affection in Hamer Hall during the copious bows and applause. Asking the viola section to stand and be acknowledged was special moment. It’s fitting the MSO and Melbourne celebrate having a player like Moore. We are just as proud of his performance as a North Fitzroy barber would be of his haircut.