Page 515 - Media Coverage Book - 75th Aldeburgh Festival 2024

Weir’s score is full of vibrant rhythmic complexity and timbral interest, with the orchestra of the

English Touring Opera under Gerry Cornelius driving this brave reading with full force. Special
mention must go to Emily Stephens on oboe and Milo Harper on harp, whose solos interacted

effortlessly with the drama on stage. Some harsher and often messy intonation in the violins made
a dent in an otherwise stellar ensemble. With just two on each string part, a connective energy and

ringing intonation is paramount, but wasn’t focused enough on this occasion.

Touring the production in the autumn, it’s heartening that English Touring Opera will bring the

ingenuity of Weir’s opera to a wider audience. In spite of subtle confusions, this cast and creative
team have produced a show with great thought and impact.

Blond Eckbert is on tour with English Touring Opera from 5 October - 16 November

brittenpearsarts.org | englishtouringopera.org.uk