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Fiona Maddocks's rating
Bronze for Berlioz
By
Fiona Maddocks
27 Jun 2007
Berlioz's Benveuto Cellini, about the boastful Florentine sculptor, tackles the business of making art, here a bronze statue for the Pope. This curious hybrid work, bursting with melody and vivid detail, came to zestful life in a concert performance by the London Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, conducted by Sir Colin Davis. A late shuffle of cast meant the soloists, not yet at ease, did not always match up to the LSO's superb forces.
In the taxing title role, Gregory Kunde had roguish charm but sounded exhausted by the end. Laura Claycomb, as Teresa, began shakily though her duet with Isabelle Cals (Ascanio) was a highlight. Berlioz, using every gorgeous orchestral colour at his disposal, turns music into highrisk adventure. Hearing this gargantuan score is like riding a gilded, stately carriage down a ski-slope. It may be insane but, as here, when it works it's thrilling.
•Benvenuto Cellini repeated Friday, 7pm. Barbican information: 0845 120 7500.
Details are correct at the time of publication - please check with venue before booking.
