A collaboration between the long established European group and a six member ensemble from Mexico.
The concert in the MFC was sold out and the audience was kept enthralled right from the beginning of a beautifully crafted programme that built momentum as it went.
Jordi Savall Photo: Pedro Aguilar
The most striking aspect (for me) was the exceptional ensemble-work between the 11 performers – with just subtle leadership from the charismatic Jordi Savall – the singers, instrumentalists and dancer kept absolutely together through changing rhythms, tempos and styles. Also the fascinating array of instruments from the tiny mosquito guitar through to a very fat one called a Lion. Almost all the performers played more than one instrument.
You could also sense the depth of scholarship behind the performances and the cultural influences going both ways between the Spanish Old World, and the South American New World. Ancient languages, music, dance forms that gradually evolved into Creole forms as a result of the contact with the Conquistadors.
The capacity audience was totally captivated and at the end of brackets completely erupted in applause. At the end, we were rewarded with a slightly cheeky encore and then Jordi Savall waved goodbye as he led his team from the stage.
An excellent start to the serious music component of the NZ Festival.
Reviewed by Adrienne Baron
