The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment (OAE) delivered a truly unforgettable experience at London's Queen Elizabeth Hall as they relived history with their recreation of Brahms' last concert. It was a night that transported us back to 7th March 1897, Vienna, and the cusp of a new century – an era when the legendary composer Johannes Brahms was still alive and breathing music into the air. Little did he know that his final public performance would be just over three weeks before his passing at the age of 63.
With meticulous attention to detail, the OAE aimed to recreate not only the exact programme but also the original performance conditions of that evening. Under the masterful baton of conductor Maxim Emelyanychev, the orchestra took to the stage with instruments from Brahms' own era – a bold move that paid off in spades. The result was an electrifying rendition of Brahms' Fourth Symphony, Dvořák's Cello Concerto, and Haydn's 'La Chasse', presented in its original order and with the auditorium lights shining bright, just as it would have been 124 years ago.
The performance was a tour-de-force that showcased the OAE's exceptional musicality and Emelyanychev's unbridled energy. The Haydn symphony, performed on instruments from the late 19th century, boasted a clarity and focus that left the audience breathless, particularly during its thrilling finale. Cellist Steven Isserlis was in top form as he tackled the demanding solo in Dvořák's Cello Concerto, effortlessly navigating the work's intricate passages with passion and tenderness.
Brahms' Fourth Symphony – still just 12 years old at the time of the original concert – was given a similarly precise and nuanced performance. Emelyanychev's occasional pushes through phrase endings added a compelling edge to the interpretation, but some critics felt that the ensemble missed an opportunity to truly push the boundaries and evoke the shock or wonder that this music would have inspired over a century ago.
The OAE's commitment to historically informed performance is well-documented, and their use of period instruments has brought an authentic sound to a wide range of classical music. Their future plans include exploring the works of Stravinsky, further expanding their historical reach while remaining true to their core philosophy.