The Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre was packed on Saturday night when Ottawa’s own world-class pianist Angela Hewitt took the stage for an elegant evening of Mozart and Brahms.
The humidity and thunderstorms only added to the dramatic nature of the night.
The Officer of the Order of Canada and a Officer of the Order of the British Empire was showcasing her conquest of Mozart’s Piano Concertos, a project she will continue alongside prestigious orchestras around the world until 2026.
Hewitt was joined onstage by the Chamberfest Anniversary Orchestra and young Canadian pianist Carter Johnson.
Hewitt led off with Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 8 in C Major, K. 246. The orchestra responded smoothly to her conducting, resulting in a complete and fulfilling sound. Hewitt’s playing in the Allegro was emotive and descriptive. She perfectly balanced the precision associated with high-calibre musical performance with the art of emotional expression.
The second Andantino movement evolved into graceful, gentle spirals. The music seemed to radiate from Hewitt, transporting the audience back in time to Vienna in the 18th century. The string section of the orchestra particularly shone in this movement, playing with warmth and complexity. The horns and oboes rose to the surface of the melody occasionally.
In a fashion fitting for Mozart, Hewitt built landscapes and monuments with her music, nodding and smiling all the while.
The third and final movement of Mozart’s concerto was bright and full. The orchestra came alive in response to Hewitt’s piano as they came together to create a whimsical velvety sound.
Hewitt seemed as though she was having a conversation with Mozart as she played, showing her deep respect for the composer. Her authenticity shone through, and the great pianist seemed absolutely exhilarated to be performing.
Next, Hewitt was joined onstage by Carter Johnson, an award-winning young Canadian pianist chosen by Hewitt to play Johannes Brahms’ Variations on a Theme by Haydn for Two Pianos.
Two pianos became one as the pair embarked on this extensive piece of music. The first movement began with bouncing energy, shifting into intimidating precision before transitioning into dark intimacy.
The overall theme of Brahms’ work was well-developed by the fifth movement. Despite the long repertoire, the audience remained enraptured by Hewitt and Johnson. The duo offered a truly balanced performance.
The final movement felt like a diverse amalgamation of the piece, with a beautiful fade out at its conclusion.
After intermission, Hewitt returned to perform Brahms’ Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel for Solo Piano.
It was here where Hewitt gave her best performance, demonstrating the intimate and familiar relationship she has with her instrument. Her performance felt lively and full. It was a true privilege to watch her make music.
At times, the fugue raced along, but Hewitt remained in control throughout. In moments of beautiful simplicity, Hewitt wove the threads of the fugue with passion, inspiring tranquility, focus and reflection.
A true architect of building music, she approached each variation with curiosity, picking apart and shaping each aspect of the Brahms. Special note should be taken of Hewitt’s expressions, which conveyed so much emotion and added to the depth of her performance.
Brahm’s work is substantial to say the least, but Hewitt concluded it with her signature dazzling smile.
The concert concluded with Mozart’s “Jeunehomme” Piano Concerto No. 9 in E-flat Major. The great composer never ran out of good ideas, and without a doubt, Hewitt and the orchestra could keep up with his challenging repertoire. After a few angelic chords, the first movement ended with a dramatic finish.
The Andantino movement began cautiously, but blossomed into tenderness, very fitting for a stormy night in the city.
The final movement was jolly and full of excitement as the orchestra swayed along to the music. The rich sound evoked images of lush gardens, soft rainfall and flowers in bloom.
Although the programme lasted several hours, the concert was well-paced, and every minute was enjoyable.
