Olivier Messiaen’s ”Turangalîla-Symphony,” a vibrant and monumental work composed in the aftermath of World War II, has received a renewed appreciation 75 years after its premiere, courtesy of a stunning performance by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and pianist Yuja Wang. This performance, brimming with a fairytale-like luster and meticulous attention to detail, showcases the symphony’s unique blend of spiritual fervor, rhythmic complexity, and orchestral brilliance. It stands as a testament to Messiaen’s innovative genius and the orchestra’s ability to capture the work’s dynamic range, from its whispers of tenderness to its eruptions of ecstatic joy. Critic Martin Nyström awards the performance the highest possible accolades, recognizing the extraordinary synergy between the orchestra and Wang, who navigates the demanding piano part with virtuosity and profound musicality.
Messiaen’s “Turangalîla-Symphony” isn’t merely a symphony; it’s a sprawling sonic tapestry woven with threads of diverse influences, from birdsong and Hindu rhythms to the composer’s deep Catholic faith and his passionate love for his wife, the pianist Yvonne Loriod. Composed between 1946 and 1948, the work represents a departure from the prevailing aesthetic of post-war austerity, embracing instead a sense of ecstatic optimism and spiritual renewal. Its ten movements, each imbued with distinct character and evocative imagery, explore themes of love, joy, and the divine. The symphony’s unusual instrumentation, including the prominent use of the ondes Martenot, an electronic instrument with a haunting, otherworldly timbre, further contributes to its unique sonic landscape. The “Turangalîla-Symphony” stands as a bold and ambitious statement, a testament to Messiaen’s unwavering belief in the power of music to transcend the darkness and offer solace and hope.
The Boston Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of a masterful conductor (the review doesn’t mention the conductor explicitly), rises to the challenge of realizing Messiaen’s complex score with precision and passion. The orchestra’s performance captures the work’s kaleidoscopic shifts in mood, from moments of serene introspection to passages of unrestrained exuberance. The brass section shines with radiant power, the woodwinds weave intricate melodic lines, and the percussion section provides a rhythmic backbone that drives the music forward with relentless energy. The strings, in turn, provide a rich and expressive foundation, supporting the other sections with nuanced phrasing and a wide dynamic range. Every section of the orchestra contributes to the creation of a vibrant sonic tapestry, demonstrating a deep understanding of Messiaen’s unique musical language.
Yuja Wang’s performance on the piano is nothing short of breathtaking. She tackles the technically demanding and emotionally charged piano part with dazzling virtuosity and unwavering musicality. Her fingers dance across the keyboard, effortlessly navigating the rapid scales, intricate arpeggios, and powerful chords that characterize Messiaen’s writing. Wang’s interpretation is not merely technically brilliant; it’s also deeply expressive, capturing the full spectrum of emotions embedded within the music. From moments of delicate tenderness to passages of explosive energy, Wang’s playing resonates with a profound understanding of the work’s spiritual and emotional core. Her performance elevates the piano part from a mere accompaniment to a vital and integral component of the symphony’s overall architecture.
The synergy between Yuja Wang and the Boston Symphony Orchestra is palpable throughout the performance. There’s a clear sense of mutual respect and understanding between the soloist and the ensemble, creating a cohesive and unified musical experience. The orchestra responds to Wang’s nuanced phrasing and dynamic shifts with remarkable sensitivity, creating a seamless interplay between the piano and the other instruments. This symbiotic relationship between soloist and orchestra is crucial to realizing the full potential of Messiaen’s complex and demanding score. The result is a performance that’s not only technically brilliant but also emotionally resonant, capturing the full spectrum of the ”Turangalîla-Symphony’s” dramatic and expressive power.
In conclusion, the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Yuja Wang’s performance of Messiaen’s “Turangalîla-Symphony” is a triumph of musical artistry. It’s a testament to the enduring power of Messiaen’s visionary composition and the exceptional skill and dedication of the musicians who bring it to life. This performance, marked by its brilliance, precision, and emotional depth, renews our appreciation for a masterpiece of 20th-century music. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music to transcend boundaries and inspire awe, especially when performed with the kind of passion and dedication exhibited by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Yuja Wang. Nyström’s highest rating is a well-deserved recognition of a truly exceptional musical achievement, capturing the essence of a work that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its creation.
