Herbert Blomstedt, the 97-year-old conductor laureate of the San Francisco Symphony, made a remarkable return to the stage after a fall sidelined him. On January 30, 2024, he conducted performances of Schubert and Brahms, captivating the audience with his architectural approach to the music. His nuanced tempo adjustments during Brahms' Symphony No. 1 created dramatic tension, leading to a triumphant conclusion. By seating various instrument sections strategically, he also enhanced the musical experience, highlighting his ability to engage with both the orchestra and the audience despite his age.
The conductor, 97, was back on the Davies stage on Thursday, Jan. 30, for the first of three scheduled performances of symphonies by Schubert and Brahms.
By severely slowing the early plucked string passage, Blomstedt was all but saying, 'Be patient. Just wait and see.'
When the famous, ravishing melody emerged, Blomstedt and the orchestra drove toward a shining, exultant finish that affirmed Brahms' unmistakable debt to Beethoven.
With a wide grin and a hand pressed to his heart, Blomstedt responded in kind, as audience members renewed their gratitude and connection.
Collection
[
|
...
]