Review: SPCO Violinist Eunice Kim Shines on Saint-Saëns’ Concerto
The program featured pieces by Beethoven and Jean Françaix alongside the Saint-Saëns violin concerto. The phrase “Bits & pieces put together to present a semblance of a whole,” part of Lawrence Weiner’s conceptual art, came to mind during the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra’s Friday midday concert at Ordway Concert Hall.
The SPCO once again proved it is composed of extremely talented musicians, each capable of commanding the stage during solo moments. This weekend’s spotlight was on violinist Eunice Kim, who captivated the audience with her dazzling performance of Camille Saint-Saëns’ Third Violin Concerto. The concerto blends rich romantic lyricism with virtuosic demands, showcasing both finger finesse and bow control.
The idea of “bits and pieces” also applies to Beethoven’s symphony structure, demonstrated in the second half of the concert. With an invigorating and assertive interpretation, the SPCO reminded listeners of Beethoven’s mastery in crafting musical mosaics, transforming minimal motifs into grand masterpieces.
“Bits & pieces put together to present a semblance of a whole.” – Lawrence Weiner
Eunice Kim’s performance and the SPCO’s dynamic approach underscore the power of combining individual talents into a cohesive and impressive musical experience.
Author’s summary: Eunice Kim’s brilliant solo and the SPCO’s masterful interpretation highlight the beauty of combining individual artistry into a compelling performance.