Barbara Hannigan has been a phenomenon in the classical music world for years. She grew into a soprano who does not shy away from challenging repertoire and later surprised by also conducting. That combination is rare: it requires physical control, artistic overview and an unerring sense of timing. In Amsterdam you can now experience for yourself how she fulfills this double role, together with the Concertgebouw Orchestra.
The program Hannigan has chosen is carefully constructed. The evening opens with the lyrical splendor of Richard Strauss' Vier letzte Lieder, a cycle often seen as his musical farewell. Hannigan sings these works herself, and those who know her voice know that she possesses a rare clarity and intensity. Next, the gaze returns to the 18th century, with a symphony by Joseph Haydn. His music is lively, playful and shows the roots of the symphonic tradition.
This is followed by the work of Jean Sibelius. His music is steeped in Scandinavian landscapes, with long melody lines and sudden eruptions of power. The Concertgebouw Orchestra has a reputation with this repertoire, and under Hannigan's direction, it takes on a personal and new dimension. Finally, the program features a contemporary composer: Sohrab Khayam, who brings together Western and Persian influences. His work gives the evening a modern accent, where tradition and experimentation go hand in hand.
What makes these evenings special is the unity Hannigan manages to forge. She is literally in the middle of the music: singing, conducting, leading. As a result, the performance does not feel like a series of separate pieces, but as one story. For the audience, it becomes a journey through different times, styles and emotions, with Hannigan as guide.
"Hannigan proves that leading and singing at the same time is not only possible, but compelling."
The Concertgebouw is the setting for this. The Great Hall is famous for its acoustics, in which every nuance comes into its own. Doors open forty minutes before curtain-up and drinks are included during intermission. This makes it not just a concert, but a complete evening out.