The Jullaird Orch Conducted by Alan Gilbert with Cellist Anne Richardson

Last night the full Juilliard Orch performed at Lincoln Center under Maestro Alan Gilbert a composition by Henri Dutilleux (b France 1916-2013.)  Tout un monde lointain (A Whole Distant World) was composed by Dutilleux in 1970.  The cello soloist was played magnificiently by Julliard student & professional artist, Anne Richardson. The evening was special concert for several reasons.  First, the students performed in Geffen Hall, home to the NYPhilharmonic & under the Philharmonic's conductor, Alan Gilbert.  It was an exciting event and interesting to observe the serious note with which the students performed.  The Julliard Orch students were poised on the edge of the chairs & earnest  in focusing on Gilbert's conducting.  Second, Dutilleux's symphony was a delightful surprise.  This was the 1st time hearing it for me. The composition was pastiche of styles that flowed seamlessly & unexpectedly together.  I would describe the piece as modern & classical with a mystical, shimmering aesthetic.   The 1st movement, "Enigme" set up a quizzical overture with soft sounding cymbals underlying the plucking of the cello.  There was a lilt, whimsy and complexity that was enticing.  "Regard," the 2nd movement was slower, richer & more layered building to crescendos with the entire string section.  The first two movements reminded somewhat of a lighter sounding "Fantasia."  The snare drums & cymbals were woven into the rhythm with a vibrating tremble that underscored the cello.  The cello always predominated without overtaking the ensemble.  The large string section remained silent for periods & then swiftly & richly built to completeness.  Both the cello & strings were plucked with a breezy, harp-like sound.  I thoroughly enjoyed Dutilleux interesting & beautiful composition that  meshed varying styles with a cohesive fluidity.  I hope to hear this piece at another time.  Bravo to cellist, Richardson, the Julliard Orch & conductor Gilbert for enriching & mentoring the next generation of musicians.  This was a delightful evening on a dreadful, stormy night.  Perhaps, the weather & the "higher" priced ticket for the Julliard Orch kept people at bay.  What a shame to see so many empty seats in the orchestra especially with such an attentive & enthusiastic assemblage of young musicians.