NYPhil Rehearsal Performs Sibelius and Strauss

Today's open rehearsal was conducted by Alan Gilbert.  A major part of the enjoyment to the rehearsals is to witness the intimate collaboration between maestro Gilbert and his orchestra members.  The concert began with the announcement of the passing of a member of the their orchestral family for whom the performance was dedicated.  The first piece on the program was the Sibelius' (b. Finaldn 1865-19270 En saga, Tone Poem for a large orchestra.  The rich, jubilant meldoies reverberated with double winds: flutes, piccolos, oboes, clarinets, bassoons.  In addition there were 3 trumpets, 4 horns, 3 tombones, tuba, cymbals, bass drum, triangle & strings.  The plucking of the violin stromgs provided a  brighter element.  I felt a sorrowful response in contrast to the lighthearted movements.  STRAUS' (b. Germany1864-1949) Op. 27, #1 & 2 is a more somber piece featuring soprano Heidi Melton (in her NYPhil debut) and Erick Owens singing the bass-baritone Opus 33, #4.  The admission ($20) makes a plethora of musical performances enticing for works I wouldn't ordinarily seek.  The sombre German piece  included a harpist which echoed with a bright accent to  the vocals.  I appreciated being privy to watching Gilbert confer privately to Melton with his hand on her shoulder and noting her friendly, receptive response.  Owens and Gilbert exhcanged some laughter during pausal notations.  The expanisve repertoire and the intimate interactions between conductor, soloists and orchestra are an enlightening aspect with all rehearsals.