Orchestra
'Good, clear and confident
playing, under the guidance of their charismatic and inspirational Chief Conductor,
Sarah-Grace Williams. The lively tempi brought out a sense of decisiveness, and with it
came an energy that breathed new life into these well-known landmarks of the repertoire.
The Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra performs with the passion that only comes from a great
sense of pride in what they're doing. You can see it in the players' faces, their
enthusiasm and excitement is palpable'.
Mike Smith, Station Manager 2MBS FM
'What an exciting new ensemble. I love the philosophy behind it and the energy it exudes.
Bravo!'
Mary Jo Capps, CEO Musica Viva
"...The Inaugural Concert of the MCO was a virtuosic display of sophisticated fire
and passion. The spirited and focussed inspiration of their Artistic Director and Chief
Conductor, Sarah-Grace Williams, produced absolute commitment from this new ensemble of
superb musicians. The result? The birth of a new musical force in Sydney! Bravo,
MCO!..."
Bernard Walz, Pianist
"A very important concert by a very important new ensemble.."
John Ockwell, Sydney Youth Orchestras
"Members obviously share a passion and commitment for quality orchestral music, led
by the very capable and energetic Sarah-Grace Williams. This is certainly an ensemble to
watch!"
Bernie Heard, Sydney Symphony
The Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra describes itself as ‘The Most Vibrant New Sound in
Orchestral Music’, and judging by the sheer energy and spirit of this performance
this self-appointed accolade seems most appropriate.
Under the strict and inspirational influence of their highly-talented and charismatic
conductor, Sarah-Grace Williams, the orchestra re-invigorated some of the well-trodden
paths of the musical repertoire, Beethoven’s Coriolan Overture and Mozart’s G
minor Symphony (no.40).
The Coriolan opens with tightly-coiled tension that only achieves its resolution in the
closing triumphant bars. The shouts from the orchestra were assured, crisp and assertive,
a portent of things to come. This was strong, impassioned playing, just as Beethoven
himself would have approved.
The Mozart symphony was a most refreshing account in which the orchestra sections achieved
independence and cohesion, and a colouring of the textures that is Mozart’s
speciality. I thought I already knew this work well, but it came alive with new insights;
the tempi were exhilarating and the ensemble playing beautifully balanced.
Sandwiched between these two works was Prokofiev’s ‘Classical’ Symphony, a
‘twentieth century symphony Haydn might have written’ (had he been born 100
years later!). This work relies on an energetic and almost eccentric style of playing with
cheeky humour and impish interplay between the sections and the vitality and coruscating
nature of the musicianship kept the listener alert and (importantly) involved.
I look forward with eager anticipation to the next performance of this fine ensemble on October 31st.
2MBS FM
The Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra – CONCERT REVIEW
Mike Smith, September 2009
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