West Australian Symphony Orchestra | Conductor & Soloist: Umberto Clerici
On a warm autumn night at Winthrop Hall, the West Australian Symphony Orchestra delivered a stirring and vibrant performance with Winter Daydreams. Led by renowned cellist and conductor Umberto Clerici, the evening showcased not only orchestral brilliance but Clerici’s rare dual talents as both conductor and soloist.
The concert opened with Berlioz’s vibrant Roman Carnival Overture; a joyous piece originally intended as a prelude to his ill-fated opera Benvenuto Cellini and later repurposed as a standalone piece which received an immediate encore at its premiere. WASO brought it to life with swirling woodwinds, buoyant strings, and a particularly shimmering cor anglaissolo, making for a delightful and celebratory introduction to the concert.
The true showstopper and highlight of my night followed: Camille Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1 in A minor. In a remarkable feat, Clerici performed the solo cello part while simultaneously conducting the orchestra—offering a unique perspective and a view of his dramatic facial expressions as he faced the audience. His rich, expressive tone blended beautifully with the orchestra, and his physicality brought a theatrical, almost dance-like quality to the performance. The transitions between movements were seamless, and the rapport between soloist and ensemble was palpable.
The final piece, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 1 in G minor (“Winter Daydreams”), rounded out the evening with atmospheric elegance. Composed in his mid-twenties, the symphony hints at Russian folk roots and youthful yearning. From its haunting flute and bassoon lines to the lush, expansive finale based on the folk tune The Gardens Bloomed, WASO navigated its lyrical and dramatic turns with nuance and power.
Clerici’s versatility as both performer and conductor was on full display, and the orchestra responded with energy and precision. Winter Daydreams was a captivating musical experience—diverse in repertoire, rich in emotion, and a testament to the continued excellence of WASO.
As the audience spilled out into the UWA grounds, the buzz of excitement lingered in the air. A memorable and inspiring way to spend a Friday night.