"It's a remarkable occasion whenever a teenager gets the chance to perform a concerto with a symphony orchestra, but the Portland Youth Philharmonic took that to a higher level during the opening concert of its 102 nd season at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall (November 8). That's when Lucy Joo, a 15-year-old phenom at the keyboard, delivered a dynamic performance of Beethoven's Piano Concerto No 5, "Emperor" with the PYP."
"The ultra-talented pianist found time to not only to learn all of the complexities of Beethoven's "Emperor Concerto," but also to give a wonderfully majestic performance. She superbly expressed sweeping arpeggios and executed immaculate trills, creating grand statements that were inspiring. She marvelously conveyed the graceful and serene atmosphere of the second movement and concluded the piece with joyful elan."
"Joo's elevated playing was supported very well by the orchestra. The only problem was that the large contingent of strings would drown her out now and then. A smaller orchestra would have allowed for more dynamic nuances, but every member in the PYP deserves a chance to perform; so there's not much wiggle room. PYP musical director David Hattner is masterful at programming concerts that can show off the full scope of the PYP orchestra."
Lucy Joo, a 15-year-old pianist, won multiple concerto competitions and soloed with the Portland Youth Philharmonic performing Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5, "Emperor." She balanced technical command with musical expression, delivering sweeping arpeggios, immaculate trills, and a graceful, serene second movement before a joyful conclusion. The orchestra provided strong support overall, though a large string section occasionally overwhelmed the soloist and limited dynamic subtlety. Joo also serves in the PYP cello section, contributes music at her church, participates in sports, and holds class president responsibilities. David Hattner curated programming to showcase the orchestra's breadth.
Read at Oregon ArtsWatch * Arts & Culture News
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