Santa Cruz Symphony: Stravinsky’s Le Sacre du Printemps
Joe Sekon, Peninsula Reviews: October 28, 2018
“Once again, Stewart conducted all three works without the score!”
“The orchestra can consider itself elevated to the next level.”
“This performance certainly demonstrated the mark of high quality orchestral professionalism of the Santa Cruz Symphony and left its mark indelibly etched in the back of the cranium.”
“Controlled and well balanced under Stewart’s baton… Impeccably performed.”
“Throughout the performance the orchestra created exciting moments covering a wide spectrum of sound, from subtle tranquility to wild hysteria.”
“Maestro Stewart pushed rhythmic structure, with its varying contrary, contradictory rhythms and unusual meters to its utmost, right to the final chord.”
“The charismatic Stewart showed his appreciation for the excellent showing by shaking the hand and congratulating practically every member of the orchestra.”
“A well deserved BRAVO”
http://www.peninsulareviews.com/2018/10/28/santa-cruz-symphony-stravinskys-le-sacre-du-printemps/
RITES OF SPRING : SANTA CRUZ SYMPHONY CONCERT
Fleur Williams, Local Santa Cruz: October 30, 2018
“Maestro Daniel Stewart conjured up this sunny atmosphere and amorous pursuit like a wizard, transporting audiences to a warm place with sensual performances by his musicians.”
“From the first delicate, intoxicating flute solo to the sumptuous, wide-ranging sound of the orchestra in full bloom, the musicians produced a narrative that was magical and seductive.”
“A remarkable understanding of the composers’ visions.”
“A deliciously fresh and vivacious performance of George Gershwin’s ‘An American in Paris’.”
“SCS musicians showed brilliant classical technique fused with a sensitivity for Gershwin’s jazzy inflections.”
“The orchestra swept us out of the concert hall and on a stroll around bustling Parisian streets with a lively impression of the charm and chaos of a city and its people.”
“Throughout the performance, everyone in the venue remained intensely focused, including the musicians, conductor, and audience.”
“Maestro Stewart’s range from subtle signs to passionate gestures of the baton helped us participate in the emotional dynamics of the music.”
“The musicians smoothly navigated the complex rhythmic structures and changeable moods of Stravinsky’s piece — each soft phrase, dramatic eruption or sudden shock of silence was impeccably controlled and synchronized by the orchestra.”
“The audience appears to breathe along with and react to Stewart’s direction, and the music becomes so absorbing that even the pauses between each movement are powerful.”
“Whether evoking the atmosphere of a faun’s adventures, the contagious energy of a French city, or the mysterious qualities of nature evolving, the SCS orchestra does an exceptional job depicting diverse worlds and keeping the legacies of Debussy, Gershwin, and Stravinsky alive.”
https://localsantacruz.com/music/rites-spring-santa-cruz-symphony-concert/