The full power of the Latvian Radio Choir with understated excellence from Melnikov - Proms at Cadogan Hall, PCM 5

The Latvian Radio Choir at Prom 38
© BBC/Chris Christodoulou

BBC Proms at ... Cadogan Hall, PCM5

Alexander Melnikov (piano)

Latvian Radio Choir

Sigvards Kļava (director)

Monday 14 August, 2017

Cadogan Hall, London

★★★★

Shostakovich:

Preludes and Fugues, Op. 87, Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 7 & 8

Ten Poems on Texts by Revolutionary Poets, Op. 88, Nos. 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9

Alexander Melnikov
© Marco Borggreve

'The most immediately impressive aspect of the Latvian Radio Choir’s singing (and Sigvards Kļava’s direction) is the dynamic range they achieve'.

'The blend was perfect, with a rich, smooth sound, and the tenor line floated over the top at the close was sublime'.

'Melnikov had a low-key stage presence, and his playing was at all times thoughtful and calm'.

'His precise articulation was so captivating, even in its final descent to the depths of the keyboard'.

Read my full review on Bachtrack here.