쏟아지는 화살 같은 선율로 헝가리의 마음을 빼앗다.
There is not many words to describe violinist Ji Man Wee’s performance in Bela Bartok National Hall with Savaria Symphony Orchestra and conductor Alfredo Sorichetti. Adjectives, like graceful and spectacular, loses the sense of subtlety and power of each notes carried by the violinist.
Violinist Wee played the only violin concerto by Johannes Brahms; who dedicated this piece in 1878 for his close friend and greatest Hungarian violinist, Joseph Joachim. However, Joachim also had great influences on Brahms over the composition, as Brahms instructed him to correct solo parts that are difficult, awkward, or impossible to play. Joachim also provided alternatives to several passages, where ‘violinistic’ qualities are lacking and suggested adjustments i the orchestral textures to give better balance between the orchestra and the violin. Out of respect for his friend, Brahms also added a part that acted in the manner of ‘alla zingarese’ (Hungarian manner).
The premier of the concerto took place in Leipzig Gewandhaus by the two men. While it had received a positive result by the audience, many critics debated over the nature of the composition. Some praised the piece for its virtuosity and symphonic qualities, matching the level of Beethoven’s own violin concerto. However, others criticised it for being impossible for other violinist to play, as it is lacking in violinistic characteristics, but rather was more pianistic. Skeptical listeners also noted that the piece seemed to go beyond the abilities of most violinist. As Joachim was a well-known and extremely skilled violinist, the composition became one of the most difficult violin concertos. Yet, violinist Ji Man Wee performed the concerto with perfection, as if Brahms written it for him.
The first movement started with a lengthy introduction by the orchestra developing the theme to the audience. After the theme slowly dies away, the solo violin enters with an unusual use of timpani, as if playing homage to Beethoven. The soloist plays the theme again with brilliance. The violin then leads the orchestra into an intense section that finishes the exposition. The development section has a soulful melody that soon turns into a dreamy passage. After a sudden explosion by the orchestra, the soloist moves onto a cadenza, finishing off the first movement. As the musicians move onto the second movement, the melody begins by the solo oboe with orchestral accompaniment. The spotlight of the solo violinist dimmed for a short while. The solo violin finally takes over, giving a deft contrast between the two instruments. A cheery atmosphere is created, as the third movement begins. Wee was able to overcome many technical demands with ease, such as the use of multiple stopping, broken chords, rapid scale passages, and rhythmic variation; which are mostly found in piano compositions. He gives out a passionate small cadenza and phases into coda with a much faster tempo. As the movement reaches its peak, everyone held their breath in anticipation of the last forte.
After the final bang, the people jumped up from their seats, shouting out “Bravo!”. A concerto with Hungarian rhythm, performed by a violinist with skills matching the Hungarian violinist Joachim. It was a perfect way to end the day with Szombathely, Hungary. On the night of June 3rd, violinist Ji Man Wee, with Savaria Symphony Orchestra and Maestro Alfredo Sorichetti, gave the most satisfactory performance of Brahm’s violin concerto.