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Posted: |
Jan 25, 2014 - 12:19 AM
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By: |
Jim Doherty
(Member)
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Tonight, I had the privilege of seeing the CSO play Herrmann's score to VERTIGO live to a screening of the film. It was a transcendent experience.
The orchestra was conducted by Richard Kaufman. I will say that I have not always been one of Kaufman's biggest fans. I have now seen several film music concerts conducted by him. Sometimes, the performances are right on the mark (to the point of giving you chills); sometimes you just shake your head and say to yourself, "Oh, that could have been so much better." I will say though, that Mr. Kaufman has scored many more times in the former category than the latter. For instance, his conducting during the film screening/concert version of PSYCHO was spot-on, and one of the best performances of that music I've ever heard.
Well, tonight, he scored BIG! The orchestral balances were wonderful. He also brought out tiny bits of orchestration I don't think I've EVER heard before (and that's saying something, as I've listened to this score, in various recordings, EASILY over 200 times - it's one of my favorite Herrmann scores).
I only wish that every Herrmann fan could hear this music performed live with a first-class orchestra such as the CSO, with the enormous power of the sound just enveloping you. It's something no CD can ever replicate, no matter how good your sound system. I got shivers during several sequences, and actually had to control myself from crying at the end of the love music/transformation scene - it was that powerful.
I have to say, it was a financial strain to purchase these tickets, as I'm not exactly rolling in dough at the moment, but even after only the "Main Title and Rooftop Sequence," I already knew it was money well spent. By the end of the night I knew that if I had missed this, I would have kicked myself for a long time. It was indeed a night to remember. This is one night that will stick with me for a long, long time. I hope other deserving Herrmann films receive this treatment in the future.
After tonight, I have to say that it’s a pity that all films can’t have their scores played live, instead of on the film soundtrack. Yes, OF COURSE I know that would be impossible, but, WOW, what a difference.
Again, kudos to Mr. Kaufman and the CSO, and of course, Mr. Herrmann.
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