Fans of Freddie Mercury were unlikely to have been disappointed with West Australian Symphony Orchestra’s Bohemian Rhapsodies, presented at the Perth Concert Hall, despite a fantasy of a different kind being performed. The concert included a Mozart Symphony composed in Salzburg, Smetana and Janáček as representative Czech composers, and Nigel Westlake presenting the world premiere of his trumpet concerto.

From left to right: Nigel Westlake with Brent Grapes and Johannes Fritzsch following the world premiere of Westlake’s Trumpet Concerto with WASO. Photo © Rebecca Mansell

Conductor Johannes Fritzsch opened the concert with a lively Allegro in Mozart’s ‘Haffner’ symphony. Originally conceived as a serenade for the Haffner family, the serenade evolved into a symphony by omitting the introductory march and a minuet, and adding extra instruments to produce a fuller sound. The initial commanding opening and bold dotted rhythms could have had more precision, but careful dynamic shading ensured musical interest.

The graceful Andante produced an intuitive ensemble from all sections, with the Menuetto and Trio providing a bright change of mood. The driving Presto finale accomplished Mozart’s instruction of performing as fast as players could manage without losing clarity. Elegance in...