Aho 15

In 40 years of seriously listening to music and attending concerts, I have never been to the world premiere of a symphony. That is before this week when I went to see and hear the BBC Philharmonic give the first performance of Kalevi Aho's 15th symphony in Manchester.

I have enjoyed Aho's symphonies over the last few years and previously been to a perfomance of the 10th. This new work didn't disappoint. The first movement with its amazing string sound at the opening was dramatic and effective. The second movement was a sleazy dance in 5/8 time with lots of percussion. The slow movement used the percussion more lightly before the last movement built up to a big, driving climax with powerful use of Middle-Eastern and African drums.

I was considering that most (all?) of Aho's previous symphonies seem to end quietly, so it was interesting that he chose a loud, dramatic closing dance this time.

I am feel quite privileged that I am currently one of the few people who have heard 14 of Aho's 15 symphonies (the 6th is still to be recorded and I haven't heard it. I am looking forward to the broadcast this coming Friday and I hope it is not long before BIS issue the recording.